Particulate Laundry Softening Wash Additive

ABSTRACT

A composition including a plurality of particles, the particles including: about 25% to about 94% by weight a water soluble carrier; about 5% to about 45% by weight a quaternary ammonium compound; and about 0.5% to about 10% by weight a cationic polymer; wherein each of the particles has a mass from about 1 mg to about 1 g; and wherein the composition has a viscosity from about 1 Pa-s to about 10 Pa-s at 65° C.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Through the wash laundry softening additive.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Consumers continually express interest is products that can simplify theprocesses they use to launder clothes, help them reduce the amount oftime they spend dealing with dirty laundry, and help them achieve highlevels of cleanliness and softness for their family's clothing. Cleaningand softening of laundry presently requires consumers to dose twoproducts to either different compartments of the washing machine or todose one product to the washing machine and one product to the dyer.

The process of laundering fabric can be broken up into three basicsteps: washing, rinsing, and drying. The washing step typically employswater and detergent composition comprising anionic surfactant, alongwith other active agents that are compatible with anionic surfactants inthe unused product form and in the wash liquor formed during the washingstep. After washing, the laundry is rinsed one or more times as part ofthe rinsing step.

Presently, laundry softening is most often and practically accomplishedduring the rinsing step with a liquid softening composition that isseparate from the detergent composition or during the drying step. Toapply liquid softening composition to the laundry in the washingmachine, the liquid softening composition is introduced to the laundryduring the rinsing step. The liquid softening composition may beautomatically introduced into the rinse from a compartment that keepsthe liquid softening composition separate from the washing composition.The compartment may be part of the agitator, if present, or another partof the washing machine that can be opened to dispense the liquidsoftening composition into the drum. This is often referred to assoftening through the rinse. Softening through the rinse requires theconsumer to dose the detergent composition and the softening compositionto different locations of the washing machine, which is inconvenient.

Laundry softening can also be accomplished during the drying step usingfabric softening sheets. With either of these approaches to cleaning andsoftening, cleaning is performed separately from softening.

Consumers find it inconvenient to have to dispense multiple products todifferent locations, whether the locations are part of the washingmachine or the locations are distributed between the washing machine andthe dryer. What the consumer would like is to be able to dose thedetergent composition and the softening composition to a singlelocation.

Unfortunately, liquid detergent compositions tend to be incompatiblewith softening compositions. Liquid detergent compositions compriseanionic surfactants to help clean the clothing. Softening compositionstypically comprise cationic surfactants to soften the clothing. Whencombined in a single package, the anionic surfactant and cationicsurfactant can combine and form a solid precipitate. This results inproblem with stability of the combination when packaged together in aliquid form or together in a wash liquor and a decrease in cleaningperformance as compared to the detergent composition in absence of thesoftening composition. This incompatibility problem is among the reasonsthat detergent compositions and fabric softening compositions are dosedand applied separate from one another. Liquid fabric softeningcompositions packaged separately from detergent compositions may not bepreferred by some consumers due to the inconvenience of dosing thecomposition to the washing machine, perceived messiness, and the textureof the product.

With these limitations in mind, there is a continuing unaddressed needfor a solid form through the wash fabric softening composition that canbe dispensed by the consumer together with the laundry detergent toproviding softening through the wash during the washing step.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A composition comprising a plurality of particles, said particlescomprising: about 25% to about 94% by weight a water soluble carrier;about 5% to about 45% by weight a quaternary ammonium compound; andabout 0.5% to about 10% by weight a cationic polymer; wherein each ofsaid particles has a mass from about 1 mg to about 5 g; and wherein saidcomposition has a viscosity from about 1 Pa-s to about 10 Pa-s at 65° C.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a bar chart of coefficient of friction of terries washed withdetergent only and detergent combined with one of Type A-D particles.

FIG. 2 is a photograph of Type A-D particles.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The composition described herein can provide for a through the washfabric softening composition that is convenient for the consumer to doseto the washing machine. The through the wash fabric softeningcomposition can be provided in a composition comprising a plurality ofparticles. The particles can be provided in a package that is separatefrom the package of detergent composition. Having the softeningcomposition particles in a package separate from the package ofdetergent composition can be beneficial since it allows the consumer toselect the amount of softening composition independent of the amount ofdetergent composition used. This can give the consumer the opportunityto customize the amount of softening composition used and thereby theamount of softening benefit they achieve, which is a highly valuableconsumer benefit.

Particulate products, especially particulates that are not dusty, arepreferred by many consumers. Particulate products can be easily dosed byconsumers from a package directly into the washing machine or into adosing compartment on the washing machine. Or the consumer can dose fromthe package into a dosing cup that optionally provides one or moredosing indicia and then dose the particulates into a dosing compartmenton the washing machine or directly to the drum. For products in which adosing cup is employed, particulate products tend to be less messy thanliquid products.

The particles of the fabric softening composition can comprise acarrier, a quaternary ammonium compound, and cationic polymer. Thecarrier carries the quaternary ammonium compound to the washing machine.The particle is dissolved into the wash liquor. The quaternary ammoniumcompound is deposited from the wash liquor onto the fibers of thefabric. And the cationic polymer is deposited onto the fibers of thefabric and promotes deposition of the quaternary ammonium compound ontothe fabric. The cationic polymer and quaternary ammonium compounddeposited on the fibers provides the consumer with a feeling ofsoftness.

The particles can comprise about 25% to about 94% by weight a watersoluble carrier. The particles can further comprise about 5% to about45% by weight a quaternary ammonium compound formed from a parent fattyacid compound having an Iodine Value from about 18 to about 60,optionally from about 20 to about 60. The particles can further compriseabout 0.5% to about 10% by weight a cationic polymer. Each of theparticles can have a mass from about 1 mg to about 1 g. The products canhave an onset of melt from about 25° C. to about 120° C. The particlescan comprise clay. The particles can comprise about 0.1% to about 7% byweight clay. The clay can be bentonite.

The particles can have a ratio of percent by weight quaternary ammoniumcompound to percent by weight cationic polymer from about 3:1 to about30:1, optionally from about 5:1 to about 15:1, optionally from about 5:1to about 10:1, optionally about 8:1. Without being bound by theory, themass fraction of quaternary ammonium compound and mass fraction ofcationic polymer are balanced to achieve assistance from the cationicpolymer to deposit satisfactory levels of deposition of the quaternaryammonium compound onto the fabric being treated.

The particles can have a particle Dispersion Time less than about 30minutes, optionally less than about 28 minutes, optionally less thanabout 25 minutes, optionally less than about 22 minutes, optionally lessthan about 20 minutes, optionally from about 5 minutes to about 30minutes, optionally from about 8 minutes to about 25 minutes, optionallyfrom about 10 minutes to about 25 minutes. The particles can have aparticle Dispersion Time from about 3 minutes to about 30 minutes,optionally from about 5 minutes to about 30 minutes, optionally fromabout 10 minutes to about 30 minutes. Particles having a Dispersion Timeshorter than the length of the wash sub-cycle may be desirable toprovide for maximum softness benefit and to reduce the potential forparticles or remnants thereof to carry over into the rinse sub-cycle.

The particles can comprise less than about 10% by weight water,optionally less than about 8% by weight water, optionally less thanabout 5% by weight water, optionally less than about 3% by weight water.Optionally, the particles can comprise from about 0% to about 10% byweight water, optionally from about 0% to about 8% by weight water,optionally from about 0% to about 5% by weight water, optionally fromabout 0% to about 3% by weight water. Decreasing or having these rangesof water content are thought to provide particles that are more stable.The lower the mass fraction of water, the more stable the particles arethought to be.

Water Soluble Carrier

The particles can comprise a water soluble carrier. The water solublecarrier acts to carry the fabric care benefit agents to the wash liquor.Upon dissolution of the carrier, the fabric care benefit agents aredispersed into the wash liquor.

The water soluble carrier can be a material that is soluble in a washliquor within a short period of time, for instance less than about 10minutes. The water soluble carrier can be selected from the groupconsisting of water soluble inorganic alkali metal salt, water-solublealkaline earth metal salt, water-soluble organic alkali metal salt,water-soluble organic alkaline earth metal salt, water solublecarbohydrate, water-soluble silicate, water soluble urea, and anycombination thereof.

Alkali metal salts can be, for example, selected from the groupconsisting of salts of lithium, salts of sodium, and salts of potassium,and any combination thereof. Useful alkali metal salts can be, forexample, selected from the group consisting of alkali metal fluorides,alkali metal chlorides, alkali metal bromides, alkali metal iodides,alkali metal sulfates, alkali metal bisulfates, alkali metal phosphates,alkali metal monohydrogen phosphates, alkali metal dihydrogenphosphates, alkali metal carbonates, alkali metal monohydrogencarbonates, alkali metal acetates, alkali metal citrates, alkali metallactates, alkali metal pyruvates, alkali metal silicates, alkali metalascorbates, and combinations thereof.

Alkali metal salts can be selected from the group consisting of sodiumfluoride, sodium chloride, sodium bromide, sodium iodide, sodiumsulfate, sodium bisulfate, sodium phosphate, sodium monohydrogenphosphate, sodium dihydrogen phosphate, sodium carbonate, sodiumhydrogen carbonate, sodium acetate, sodium citrate, sodium lactate,sodium tartrate, sodium silicate, sodium ascorbate, potassium fluoride,potassium chloride, potassium bromide, potassium iodide, potassiumsulfate, potassium bisulfate, potassium phosphate, potassiummonohydrogen phosphate, potassium dihydrogen phosphate, potassiumcarbonate, potassium monohydrogen carbonate, potassium acetate,potassium citrate, potassium lactate, potassium tartrate, potassiumsilicate, potassium, ascorbate, and combinations thereof.

Alkaline earth metal salts can be selected from the group consisting ofsalts of magnesium, salts of calcium, and the like, and combinationsthereof. Alkaline earth metal salts can be selected from the groupconsisting of alkaline metal fluorides, alkaline metal chlorides,alkaline metal bromides, alkaline metal iodides, alkaline metalsulfates, alkaline metal bisulfates, alkaline metal phosphates, alkalinemetal monohydrogen phosphates, alkaline metal dihydrogen phosphates,alkaline metal carbonates, alkaline metal monohydrogen carbonates,alkaline metal acetates, alkaline metal citrates, alkaline metallactates, alkaline metal pyruvates, alkaline metal silicates, alkalinemetal ascorbates, and combinations thereof. Alkaline earth metal saltscan be selected from the group consisting of magnesium fluoride,magnesium chloride, magnesium bromide, magnesium iodide, magnesiumsulfate, magnesium phosphate, magnesium monohydrogen phosphate,magnesium dihydrogen phosphate, magnesium carbonate, magnesiummonohydrogen carbonate, magnesium acetate, magnesium citrate, magnesiumlactate, magnesium tartrate, magnesium silicate, magnesium ascorbate,calcium fluoride, calcium chloride, calcium bromide, calcium iodide,calcium sulfate, calcium phosphate, calcium monohydrogen phosphate,calcium dihydrogen phosphate, calcium carbonate, calcium monohydrogencarbonate, calcium acetate, calcium citrate, calcium lactate, calciumtartrate, calcium silicate, calcium ascorbate, and combinations thereof.

Inorganic salts, such as inorganic alkali metal salts and inorganicalkaline earth metal salts, do not contain carbon. Organic salts, suchas organic alkali metal salts and organic alkaline earth metal salts,contain carbon. The organic salt can be an alkali metal salt or analkaline earth metal salt of sorbic acid (i.e., asorbate). Sorbates canbe selected from the group consisting of sodium sorbate, potassiumsorbate, magnesium sorbate, calcium sorbate, and combinations thereof.

The water soluble carrier can be or comprise a material selected fromthe group consisting of a water-soluble inorganic alkali metal salt, awater-soluble organic alkali metal salt, a water-soluble inorganicalkaline earth metal salt, a water-soluble organic alkaline earth metalsalt, a water-soluble carbohydrate, a water-soluble silicate, awater-soluble urea, and combinations thereof. The water soluble carriercan be selected from the group consisting of sodium chloride, potassiumchloride, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, sodium sulfate,potassium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, sodium carbonate, potassiumcarbonate, sodium hydrogen carbonate, potassium hydrogen carbonate,sodium acetate, potassium acetate, sodium citrate, potassium citrate,sodium tartrate, potassium tartrate, potassium sodium tartrate, calciumlactate, water glass, sodium silicate, potassium silicate, dextrose,fructose, galactose, isoglucose, glucose, sucrose, raffinose, isomalt,xylitol, candy sugar, coarse sugar, and combinations thereof. In oneembodiment, the water soluble carrier can be sodium chloride. In oneembodiment, the water soluble carrier can be table salt.

The water soluble carrier can be or comprise a material selected fromthe group consisting of sodium bicarbonate, sodium sulfate, sodiumcarbonate, sodium formate, calcium formate, sodium chloride, sucrose,maltodextrin, corn syrup solids, corn starch, wheat starch, rice starch,potato starch, tapioca starch, clay, silicate, citric acid carboxymethylcellulose, fatty acid, fatty alcohol, glyceryl diester of hydrogenatedtallow, glycerol, and combinations thereof.

The water soluble carrier can be selected from the group consisting ofwater soluble organic alkali metal salt, water soluble inorganicalkaline earth metal salt, water soluble organic alkaline earth metalsalt, water soluble carbohydrate, water soluble silicate, water solubleurea, starch, clay, water insoluble silicate, citric acid carboxymethylcellulose, fatty acid, fatty alcohol, glyceryl diester of hydrogenatedtallow, glycerol, polyethylene glycol, and combinations thereof.

The water soluble carrier can be selected from the group consisting ofdisaccharides, polysaccharides, silicates, zeolites, carbonates,sulfates, citrates, and combinations thereof.

The water soluble carrier can be a water soluble polymer. Water solublepolymers can be selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl alcohols(PVA), modified PVAs; polyvinyl pyrrolidone; PVA copolymers such asPVA/polyvinyl pyrrolidone and PVA/polyvinyl amine; partially hydrolyzedpolyvinyl acetate; polyalkylene oxides such as polyethylene oxide;polyethylene glycols; acrylamide; acrylic acid; cellulose, alkylcellulosics such as methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose and propylcellulose; cellulose ethers; cellulose esters; cellulose amides;polyvinyl acetates; polycarboxylic acids and salts; polyaminoacids orpeptides; polyamides; polyacrylamide; copolymers of maleic/acrylicacids; polysaccharides including starch, modified starch; gelatin;alginates; xyloglucans, other hemicellulosic polysaccharides includingxylan, glucuronoxylan, arabinoxylan, mannan, glucomannan andgalactoglucomannan; and natural gums such as pectin, xanthan, andcarrageenan, locus bean, arabic, tragacanth; and combinations thereof.In one embodiment the polymer comprises polyacrylates, especiallysulfonated polyacrylates and water-soluble acrylate copolymers; andalkylhydroxy cellulosics such as methylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulosesodium, modified carboxy-methylcellulose, dextrin, ethylcellulose,propylcellulose, hydroxy ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose,maltodextrin, polymethacrylates. In yet another embodiment the watersoluble polymer can be selected from the group consisting of PVA; PVAcopolymers; hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC); and mixtures thereof.

The water soluble carrier can be selected from the group consisting ofpolyvinyl alcohol, modified polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone,polyvinyl alcohol/polyvinyl pyrrolidone, polyvinyl alcohol/polyvinylamine, partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl acetate, polyalkylene oxide,polyethylene glycol, acrylamide, acrylic acid, cellulose, alkylcellulosics, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, propyl cellulose,cellulose ethers, cellulose esters, cellulose amides, polyvinylacetates, polycarboxylic acids and salts, polyaminoacids or peptides,polyamides, polyacrylamide, copolymers of maleic/acrylic acids,polysaccharides, starch, modified starch, gelatin, alginates,xyloglucans, hemicellulosic polysaccharides, xylan, glucuronoxylan,arabinoxylan, mannan, glucomannan, galactoglucomannan, natural gums,pectin, xanthan, carrageenan, locus bean, arabic, tragacanth,polyacrylates, sulfonated polyacrylates, water-soluble acrylatecopolymers, alkylhydroxy cellulosics, methylcellulose,carboxymethylcellulose sodium, modified carboxy-methylcellulose,dextrin, ethylcellulose, propylcellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose,hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, maltodextrin, polymethacrylates,polyvinyl alcohol copolymers, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, andmixtures thereof.

The water soluble carrier can be an organic material. Organic carriersmay provide a benefit of being readily soluble in water.

The water soluble carrier can be selected from the group consisting ofpolyethylene glycol, sodium acetate, sodium bicarbonate, sodiumchloride, sodium silicate, polypropylene glycol polyoxoalkylene,polyethylene glycol fatty acid ester, polyethylene glycol ether, sodiumsulfate, starch, and mixtures thereof.

The water soluble carrier can be polyethylene glycol (PEG). PEG can be aconvenient material to employ to make particles because it can besufficiently water soluble to dissolve during a wash cycle when theparticles have the range of mass disclosed herein. Further, PEG can beeasily processed as melt. The onset of melt temperature of PEG can varyas a function of molecular weight of the PEG. The particles can compriseabout 25% to about 94% by weight PEG having a weight average molecularweight from about 2000 to about 13000. PEG has a relatively low cost,may be formed into many different shapes and sizes, minimizesunencapsulated perfume diffusion, and dissolves well in water. PEG comesin various weight average molecular weights. A suitable weight averagemolecular weight range of PEG includes from about 2,000 to about 13,000,alternatively from about 4,000 to about 13,000, alternatively from about4,000 to about 12,000, alternatively from about 4,000 to about 11,000,alternatively from about 5,000 to about 11,000, alternatively from about6,000 to about 10,000, alternatively from about 7,000 to about 9,000,alternatively combinations thereof. PEG is available from BASF, forexample PLURIOL E 8000 (which has a weight average molecular weight of9000 even though 8000 is in the product name), or other PLURIOL product.

The particles can comprise about 25% to about 94% by weight of theparticles of PEG. Optionally, the particles can comprise from about 35%to about 94%, optionally from about 50% to about 94%, optionallycombinations thereof and any whole percentages or ranges of wholepercentages within any of the aforementioned ranges, of PEG by weight ofthe respective particles.

The carrier can comprise a material selected from the group consistingof: a polyalkylene polymer of formulaH—(C₂H₄O)_(x)—(CH(CH₃)CH₂O)_(y)—(C₂H₄O)_(z)—OH wherein x is from about50 to about 300, y is from about 20 to about 100, and z is from about 10to about 200; a polyethylene glycol fatty acid ester of formula(C₂H₄O)_(q)—C(O)O—(CH₂)_(r)—CH₃ wherein q is from about 20 to about 200and r is from about 10 to about 30; a polyethylene glycol fatty alcoholether of formula HO—(C₂H₄O)_(s)—(CH₂)_(t))—CH₃ wherein s is from about30 to about 250 and t is from about 10 to about 30; and mixturesthereof. The polyalkylene polymer of formulaH—(C₂H₄O)_(x)—(CH(CH₃)CH₂O)_(y)—(C₂H₄O)_(z)—OH wherein x is from about50 to about 300, y is from about 20 to about 100, and z is from about 10to about 200, can be a block copolymer or random copolymer.

The carrier can comprise: polyethylene glycol; a polyalkylene polymer offormula H—(C₂H₄O)_(x)—(CH(CH₃)CH₂O)_(y)—(C₂H₄O)_(z)—OH wherein x is fromabout 50 to about 300; y is from about 20 to about 100, and z is fromabout 10 to about 200; a polyethylene glycol fatty acid ester of formula(C₂H₄O)_(q)—C(O)O—(CH₂)_(r)—CH₃ wherein q is from about 20 to about 200and r is from about 10 to about 30; and a polyethylene glycol fattyalcohol ether of formula HO—(C₂H₄O)_(s)—(CH₂)_(t))—CH₃ wherein s is fromabout 30 to about 250 and t is from about 10 to about 30.

The carrier can comprise from about 20% to about 80% by weight of theparticles of polyalkylene polymer of formulaH—(C₂H₄O)_(x)—(CH(CH₃)CH₂O)_(y)—(C₂H₄O)_(z)—OH wherein x is from about50 to about 300; y is from about 20 to about 100, and z is from about 10to about 200.

The carrier can comprise from about 1% to about 20% by weight of theparticles polyethylene glycol fatty acid ester of formula(C₂H₄O)_(q)—C(O)O—(CH₂)_(r)—CH₃ wherein q is from about 20 to about 200and r is from about 10 to about 30.

The carrier can comprise from about 1% to about 10% by weight of theparticles of polyethylene glycol fatty alcohol ether of formulaHO—(C₂H₄O)_(s)—(CH₂)_(t))—CH₃ wherein s is from about 30 to about 250and t is from about 10 to about 30.

Quaternary Ammonium Compound

The particles can comprise a quaternary ammonium compound so that theparticles can provide a softening benefit to laundered fabrics throughthe wash, and in particular during the wash sub-cycle of a washer havingwash and rinse sub-cycles. The quaternary ammonium compound (quat) canbe an ester quaternary ammonium compound. Suitable quaternary ammoniumcompounds include but are not limited to, materials selected from thegroup consisting of ester quats, amide quats, imidazoline quats, alkylquats, amidoester quats and combinations thereof Suitable ester quatsinclude but are not limited to, materials selected from the groupconsisting of monoester quats, diester quats, triester quats andcombinations thereof.

Without being bound by theory, it is thought that the Dispersion Time ofthe particles that include a quaternary ammonium compound tends todecrease with increasing Iodine Value, recognizing that there is somevariability with respect to this relationship.

The particles can comprise about 5% to about 45% by weight a quaternaryammonium compound. The quaternary ammonium compound can optionally havean Iodine Value from about 18 to about 60, optionally about 18 to about56, optionally about 20 to about 60, optionally about 20 to about 56,optionally about 20 to about 42, and any whole numbers within theaforesaid ranges. Optionally the particles can comprise about 10% toabout 40% by weight a quaternary ammonium compound, further optionallyhaving any of the aforesaid ranges of Iodine Value. Optionally theparticles can comprise about 20% to about 40% by weight a quaternaryammonium compound, further optionally having the aforesaid ranges ofIodine Value.

The quaternary ammonium compound can be selected from the groupconsisting of esters of bis-(2-hydroxypropyl)-dimethylammoniummethylsulfate, isomers of esters ofbis-(2-hydroxypropyl)-dimethylammonium methylsulfate and fatty acid,N,N-bis-(stearoyl-2-hydroxypropyl)-N,N-dimethylammonium methylsulfate,esters of bis-(2-hydroxypropyl)-dimethylammonium methylsulfate, isomersof esters of bis-(2-hydroxypropyl)-dimethylammonium methylsulfate,esters of N,N-bis(hydroxyethyl)-N,N-dimethyl ammonium chloride,N,N-bis(stearoyl-oxy-ethyl)-N,N-dimethyl ammonium chloride, esters ofN,N,N-tri(2-hydroxyethyl)-N-methyl ammonium methylsulfate,N,N-bis-(palmitoyl-2-hydroxypropyl)-N,N-dimethylammoniu methylsulfate,N,N-bis-(stearoyl-2-hydroxypropyl)-N,N-dimethylammonium chloride,1,2-di-(stearoyl-oxy)-3-trimethylammoniumpropane chloride,dicanoladimethylammonium chloride, di(hard)tallowdimethylammoniumchloride, dicanoladimethylammonium methylsulfate,1-methyl-1-stearoylamidoethyl-2-stearoylimidazolinium methylsulfate,imidazoline quat (no longer used by P&G):1-tallowylamidoethyl-2-tallowylimidazoline, dipalmitoylmethylhydroxyethylammonium methylsulfate, dipalmylmethyl hydroxyethylammoinummethylsulfate, 1,2-di(acyloxy)-3-trimethylammoniopropane chloride, andmixtures thereof.

A quaternary ammonium compound can comprise compounds of the formula:

{R² _(4-m)—N⁺—[X—Y—R¹]_(m)}A⁻  (1)

wherein:

-   -   m is 1, 2 or 3 with proviso that the value of each m is        identical;    -   each R¹ is independently hydrocarbyl, or substituted hydrocarbyl        group;    -   each R² is independently a C₁-C₃ alkyl or hydroxyalkyl group,        preferably R² is selected from methyl, ethyl, propyl,        hydroxyethyl, 2-hydroxypropyl, 1-methyl-2-hydroxyethyl, poly        (C₂₋₃ alkoxy), poly ethoxy, benzyl;    -   each X is independently (CH₂)_(n), CH₂—CH(CH₃)— or CH—(CH₃)—CH₂—        and    -   each n is independently 1, 2, 3 or 4, preferably each n is 2;    -   each Y is independently —O—(O)C— or —C(O)—O—;    -   A- is independently selected from the group consisting of        chloride, methylsulfate, ethylsulfate, and sulfate, preferably        A- is selected from the group consisting of chloride and methyl        sulfate;        with the proviso that the sum of carbons in each R¹, when Y is        —O—(O)C—, is from 13 to 21, preferably the sum of carbons in        each R¹, when Y is —O—(O)C—, is from 13 to 19.

The quaternary ammonium compound can comprise compounds of the formula:

[R3N+CH2CH(YR1)(CH2YR1)]X—

wherein each Y, R, R1, and X— have the same meanings as before. Suchcompounds include those having the formula:

[CH3]3 N(+)[CH2CH(CH2O(O)CR1)O(O)CR1]Cl(−)  (2)

wherein each R is a methyl or ethyl group and preferably each R1 is inthe range of C15 to C19. As used herein, when the diester is specified,it can include the monoester that is present.

An example of a preferred DEQA (2) is the “propyl” ester quaternaryammonium fabric softener active having the formula1,2-di(acyloxy)-3-trimethylammoniopropane chloride. A third type ofpreferred fabric softening active has the formula:

wherein each R, R1, and A- have the definitions given above; each R2 isa C1-6 alkylene group, preferably an ethylene group; and G is an oxygenatom or an —NR— group;

The quaternary ammonium compound can comprise compounds of the formula:

wherein R1, R2 and G are defined as above.

The quaternary ammonium compound can comprise compounds that arecondensation reaction products of fatty acids with dialkylenetriaminesin, e.g., a molecular ratio of about 2:1, said reaction productscontaining compounds of the formula:

R1-C(O)—NH—R2-NH—R3-NH—C(O)—R1  (5)

wherein R1, R2 are defined as above, and each R3 is a C1-6 alkylenegroup, optionally an ethylene group and wherein the reaction productsmay optionally be quaternized by the additional of an alkylating agentsuch as dimethyl sulfate.

The quaternary ammonium compound can comprise compounds of the formula:

[R1-C(O)—NR—R2-N(R)2-R3-NR—C(O)—R1]+A-  (6)

wherein R, R1, R2, R3 and A- are defined as above;

The quaternary ammonium compound can comprise compounds that arereaction products of fatty acid with hydroxyalkylalkylenediamines in amolecular ratio of about 2:1, said reaction products containingcompounds of the formula:

R1-C(O)—NH—R2-N(R3OH)—C(O)—R1  (7)

wherein R1, R2 and R3 are defined as above;

A eighth type of preferred fabric softening active has the formula:

wherein R, R1, R2, and A- are defined as above.

Non-limiting examples of compound (1) are N,N-bis(stearoyl-oxy-ethyl)N,N-dimethyl ammonium chloride, N,N-bis(tallowoyl-oxy-ethyl)N,N-dimethyl ammonium chloride, N,N-bis(stearoyl-oxy-ethyl) N-(2hydroxyethyl) N-methyl ammonium methylsulfate.

Non-limiting examples of compound (2) is 1,2 di (stearoyl-oxy) 3trimethyl ammoniumpropane chloride.

A non-limiting example of Compound (3) is1-methyl-1-stearoylamidoethyl-2-stearoylimidazolinium methylsulfatewherein R1 is an acyclic aliphatic C15-C17 hydrocarbon group, R2 is anethylene group, G is a NH group, R5 is a methyl group and A- is a methylsulfate anion, available commercially from the Witco Corporation underthe trade name Varisoft®.

A non-limiting example of Compound (4) is1-tallowylamidoethyl-2-tallowylimidazoline wherein R1 is an acyclicaliphatic C15-C17 hydrocarbon group, R2 is an ethylene group, and G is aNH group.

A non-limiting example of Compound (5) is the reaction products of fattyacids with diethylenetriamine in a molecular ratio of about 2:1, saidreaction product mixture containing N,N″-dialkyldiethylenetriamine withthe formula:

R1-C(O)—NH—CH2CH2-NH—CH2CH2-NH—C(O)—R1

wherein R1-C(O) is an alkyl group of a commercially available fatty acidderived from a vegetable or animal source, such as Emersol® 223LL orEmersol® 7021, available from Henkel Corporation, and R2 and R3 aredivalent ethylene groups.

A non-limiting example of Compound (6) is a difatty amidoamine basedsoftener having the formula:

[R1-C(O)—NH—CH2CH2-N(CH3)(CH2CH2OH)—CH2CH2-NH—C(O)—R1]+CH3SO4-

wherein R1-C(O) is an alkyl group, available commercially from the WitcoCorporation e.g. under the trade name Varisoft® 222LT.

An example of Compound (7) is the reaction products of fatty acids withN-2-hydroxyethylethylenediamine in a molecular ratio of about 2:1, saidreaction product mixture containing a compound of the formula:

R1-C(O)—NH—CH2CH2-N(CH2CH2OH)—C(O)—R1

wherein R1-C(O) is an alkyl group of a commercially available fatty acidderived from a vegetable or animal source, such as Emersol® 223LL orEmersol® 7021, available from Henkel Corporation.

An example of Compound (8) is the diquaternary compound having theformula:

wherein R1 is derived from fatty acid, and the compound is availablefrom Witco Company.

The quaternary ammonium compound can bedi-(tallowoyloxyethl)-N,N-methylhydroyethylammonium methyl sulfate.

It will be understood that combinations of quaternary ammonium compoundsdisclosed above are suitable for use in this invention.

In the cationic nitrogenous salts herein, the anion A-, which is anysoftener compatible anion, provides electrical neutrality. Most often,the anion used to provide electrical neutrality in these salts is from astrong acid, especially a halide, such as chloride, bromide, or iodide.However, other anions can be used, such as methylsulfate, ethylsulfate,acetate, formate, sulfate, carbonate, and the like. Chloride andmethylsulfate can be the anion A. The anion can also carry a doublecharge in which case A- represents half a group.

The particles can comprise from about 10 to about 40% by weightquaternary compound.

The iodine value of a quaternary ammonium compound is the iodine valueof the parent fatty acid from which the compound is formed, and isdefined as the number of grams of iodine which react with 100 grams ofparent fatty acid from which the compound is formed.

First, the quaternary ammonium compound is hydrolysed according to thefollowing protocol: 25 g of quaternary ammonium compound is mixed with50 mL of water and 0.3 mL of sodium hydroxide (50% activity). Thismixture is boiled for at least an hour on a hotplate while avoiding thatthe mixture dries out. After an hour, the mixture is allowed to cooldown and the pH is adjusted to neutral (pH between 6 and 8) withsulfuric acid 25% using pH strips or a calibrated pH electrode.

Next the fatty acid is extracted from the mixture via acidifiedliquid-liquid extraction with hexane or petroleum ether: the samplemixture is diluted with water/ethanol (1:1) to 160 mL in an extractioncylinder, 5 grams of sodium chloride, 0.3 mL of sulfuric acid (25%activity) and 50 mL of hexane are added. The cylinder is stoppered andshaken for at least 1 minute. Next, the cylinder is left to rest until 2layers are formed. The top layer containing the fatty acid in hexane istransferred to another recipient. The hexane is then evaporated using ahotplate leaving behind the extracted fatty acid.

Next, the iodine value of the parent fatty acid from which the fabricsoftening active is formed is determined following IS03961:2013. Themethod for calculating the iodine value of a parent fatty acid comprisesdissolving a prescribed amount (from 0.1-3 g) into 15 mL of chloroform.The dissolved parent fatty acid is then reacted with 25 mL of iodinemonochloride in acetic acid solution (0.1M). To this, 20 mL of 10%potassium iodide solution and 150 mL deionised water is added. After theaddition of the halogen has taken place, the excess of iodinemonochloride is determined by titration with sodium thiosulphatesolution (0.1M) in the presence of a blue starch indicator powder. Atthe same time a blank is determined with the same quantity of reagentsand under the same conditions. The difference between the volume ofsodium thiosulphate used in the blank and that used in the reaction withthe parent fatty acid enables the iodine value to be calculated.

The quaternary ammonium compound can be that used as part of BOUNCEdryer sheets available from The Procter & Gamble Company, Cincinnati,Ohio, USA. The quaternary ammonium compound can be the reaction productof triethanolamine and partially hydrogenated tallow fatty acidsquaternized with dimethyl sulfate.

Cationic Polymer

The particles can comprise a cationic polymer. Cationic polymers canprovide the benefit of a deposition aid that helps to deposit onto thefabric quaternary ammonium compound and possibly some other benefitagents that are contained in the particles.

The particles can comprise about 0.5% to about 10% by weight cationicpolymer.

Optionally, the particles can comprise about 0.5% to about 5% by weightcationic polymer, or even about 1% to about 5% by weight, or even about2% to about 4% by weight cationic polymer, or even about 3% by weightcationic polymer. Without being bound by theory, it is thought that thecleaning performance of laundry detergent in the wash decreases withincreasing levels of cationic polymer in the particles and acceptablecleaning performance of the detergent can be maintained within theaforesaid ranges.

The cationic polymer can have a cationic charge density more than about0.05 meq/g (meq meaning milliequivalents), to 23 meq/g , preferably fromabout 0.1 meq/g to about 4 meq/g. even more preferably from about 0.1meq/g to about 2 meq/g and most preferably from 0.1 meq/g to about 1meq/g.

The above referenced cationic charge densities can be at the pH ofintended use, which can be a pH from about 3 to about 9, optionallyabout 4 to about 9.

Cationic charge density of a polymer refers to the ratio of the numberof positive charges on the polymer to the molecular weight of thepolymer. Charge density is calculated by dividing the number of netcharges per repeating unit by the molecular weight of the repeatingunit. The positive charges may be located on the backbone of thepolymers and/or the side chains of polymers. The average molecularweight of such suitable cationic polymers can generally be between about10,000 and about 10 million, or even between about 50,000 and about 5million, or even between about 100,000 and about 3 million.

Non-limiting examples of cationic polymers are cationic or amphoteric,polysaccharides, proteins and synthetic polymers. Cationicpolysaccharides include cationic cellulose derivatives, cationic guargum derivatives, chitosan and its derivatives and cationic starches.Cationic polysaccharides have a molecular weight from about 1,000 toabout 2 million, preferably from about 100,000 to about 800,000.Suitable cationic polysaccharides include cationic cellulose ethers,particularly cationic hydroxyethylcellulose and cationichydroxypropylcellulose. Particularly preferred are cationic cellulosicpolymers with substituted anhydroglucose units that correspond to thegeneral Structural Formula as follows:

Wherein R¹, R², R³ are each independently selected from H, CH₃, C₈₋₂₄alkyl (linear or branched),

or mixtures thereof;

R⁴ is H,

n is from about 1 to about 10;Rx is selected from the group consisting of H, CH₃, C₈₋₂₄ alkyl (linearor branched),

or mixtures thereof, wherein Z is a water soluble anion, preferably achlorine ion and/or a bromine ion; R⁵ is H, CH₃, CH₂CH₃, or mixturesthereof; R⁷ is CH₃, CH₂CH₃, a phenyl group, a C₈₋₂₄ alkyl group (linearor branched), or mixture thereof; andR⁸ and R⁹ are each independently CH₃, CH₂CH₃, phenyl, or mixturesthereof:With the provision that at least one of R¹, R², R³ groups peranhydroglucose unit is

and each polymer has at least one

group.

The charge density of the cationic celluloses herein (as defined by thenumber of cationic charges per 100 anhydroglucose units) is preferablyfrom about 0.5% to about 60%, more preferably from about 1% to about20%, and most preferably from about 2% to about 10%.

Alkyl substitution on the anhydroglucose rings of the polymer rangesfrom about 0.01% to 5% per glucose unit, more preferably from about0.05% to 2% per glucose unit, of the polymeric material.

The cationic cellulose may lightly cross-linked with a dialdehyde suchas glyoxyl to prevent forming lumps, nodules or other agglomerationswhen added to water at ambient temperatures.

Examples of cationic hydroxyalkyl cellulose include those with the INCIname Polyquaternium 10 such as those sold under the trade names UcarePolymer JR 30M, JR 400, JR 125, LR 400 and LK 400, Polymer PK polymers;Polyquaternium 67 such as those sold under the trade name Softcat SK ™,all of which are marketed by Dow Chemicals, Midlad Mich., andPolyquaternium 4 such as those sold under the trade name Celquat H200and Celquat L-200 available from National Starch and Chemical Company,Bridgewater, N.J. Other suitable polysaccharides include Hydroxyethylcellulose or hydoxypropylcellulose quaternized with glycidyl C₁₂-C₂₂alkyl dimethyl ammonium chloride. Examples of such polysaccharidesinclude the polymers with the INCI names Polyquaternium 24 such as thosesold under the trade name Quaternium LM 200 by Dow Chemicals of Midland,Mich. Cationic starches refer to starch that has been chemicallymodified to provide the starch with a net positive charge in aqueoussolution at pH 3. This chemical modification includes, but is notlimited to, the addition of amino and/or ammonium group(s) into thestarch molecules. Non-limiting examples of these ammonium groups mayinclude substituents such as trimethylhydroxypropyl ammonium chloride,dimethylstearylhydroxypropyl ammonium chloride, ordimethyldodecylhydroxypropyl ammonium chloride. The source of starchbefore chemical modification can be chosen from a variety of sourcesincluding tubers, legumes, cereal, and grains. Non-limiting examples ofthis source of starch may include corn starch, wheat starch, ricestarch, waxy corn starch, oat starch, cassaya starch, waxy barley, waxyrice starch, glutenous rice starch, sweet rice starch, amioca, potatostarch, tapioca starch, oat starch, sago starch, sweet rice, or mixturesthereof. Nonlimiting examples of cationic starches include cationicmaize starch, cationic tapioca, cationic potato starch, or mixturesthereof. The cationic starches may comprise amylase, amylopectin, ormaltodextrin. The cationic starch may comprise one or more additionalmodifications. For example, these modifications may includecross-linking, stabilization reactions, phophorylations, hydrolyzations,cross-linking. Stabilization reactions may include alkylation andesterification. Suitable cationic starches for use in the presentcompositions are commercially-available from Cerestar under the tradename C*BOND® and from National Starch and Chemical Company under thetrade name CATO® 2A. Cationic galactomannans include cationic guar gumsor cationic locust bean gum. An example of a cationic guar gum is aquaternary ammonium derivative of Hydroxypropyl Guar such as those soldunder the trade name Jaguar C13 and Jaguar Excel available from Rhodia,Inc of Cranbury N.J. and N-Hance by Aqualon, Wilmington, Del.

Other suitable cationic polymers for use in the particles includepolysaccharide polymers, cationic guar gum derivatives, quaternarynitrogen-containing cellulose ethers, synthetic polymers, copolymers ofetherified cellulose, guar and starch. When used, the cationic polymersherein are either soluble in the composition used to form the particlesor are soluble in a complex coacervate phase in the composition fromwhich the particles are formed. Suitable cationic polymers are describedin U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,962,418; 3,958,581; and U.S. Publication No.2007/0207109A1.

One group of suitable cationic polymers includes those produced bypolymerization of ethylenically unsaturated monomers using a suitableinitiator or catalyst, such as those disclosed in WO 00/56849 and U.S.Pat. No. 6,642,200. Suitable cationic polymers may be selected from thegroup consisting synthetic polymers made by polymerizing one or morecationic monomers selected from the group consisting ofN,N-dialkylaminoalkyl acrylate, N,N-dialkylaminoalkyl methacrylate,N,N-dialkylaminoalkyl acrylamide, N,N-dialkylaminoalkylmethacrylamide,quaternized N, N dialkylaminoalkyl acrylate quaternizedN,N-dialkylaminoalkyl methacrylate, quaternized N,N-dialkylaminoalkylacrylamide, quaternized N,N-dialkylaminoalkylmethacrylamide,Methacryloamidopropyl-pentamethyl-1,3-propylene-2-ol-ammoniumdichloride,N,N,N,N′,N′,N″,N″-heptamethyl-N″-3-(1-oxo-2-methyl-2-propenyl)aminopropyl-9-oxo-8-azo-decane-1,4,10-triammoniumtrichloride, vinylamine and its derivatives, allylamine and itsderivatives, vinyl imidazole, quaternized vinyl imidazole and diallyldialkyl ammonium chloride and combinations thereof, and optionally asecond monomer selected from the group consisting of acrylamide,N,N-dialkyl acrylamide, methacrylamide, N,N-dialkylmethacrylamide,C₁-C₁₂ alkyl acrylate, C₁-C₁₂ hydroxyalkyl acrylate, polyalkylene glyolacrylate, C₁-C₁₂ alkyl methacrylate, C₁-C₁₂ hydroxyalkyl methacrylate,polyalkylene glycol methacrylate, vinyl acetate, vinyl alcohol, vinylformamide, vinyl acetamide, vinyl alkyl ether, vinyl pyridine, vinylpyrrolidone, vinyl imidazole, vinyl caprolactam, and derivatives,acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, maleic acid, vinyl sulfonic acid,styrene sulfonic acid, acrylamidopropylmethane sulfonic acid (AMPS) andtheir salts. The polymer may optionally be branched or cross-linked byusing branching and crosslinking monomers. Branching and crosslinkingmonomers include ethylene glycoldiacrylate divinylbenzene, andbutadiene. A suitable polyethyleneinine useful herein is that sold underthe tradename Lupasol® by BASF, AG, Lugwigschaefen, Germany

In another aspect, the cationic polymer may be selected from the groupconsisting of cationic polysaccharide, polyethylene imine and itsderivatives, poly(acrylamide-co-diallyldimethylammonium chloride),poly(acrylamide-methacrylamidopropyltrimethyl ammonium chloride),poly(acrylamide-co-N,N-dimethyl aminoethyl acrylate) and its quaternizedderivatives, poly(acrylamide-co-N,N-dimethyl aminoethyl methacrylate)and its quaternized derivative, poly(hydroxyethylacrylate-co-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate), poly(hydroxpropylacrylate-co-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate),poly(hydroxpropylacrylate-co-methacrylamidopropyltrimethylammoniumchloride), poly(acrylamide-co-diallyldimethylammoniumchloride-co-acrylic acid), poly(acrylamide-methacrylamidopropyltrimethylammonium chloride-co-acrylic acid), poly(diallyldimethyl ammoniumchloride), poly(vinylpyrrolidone-co-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate),poly(ethyl methacrylate-co-quaternized dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate),poly(ethyl methacrylate-co-oleyl methacrylate-co-diethylaminoethylmethacrylate), poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride-co-acrylic acid),poly(vinyl pyrrolidone-co-quaternized vinyl imidazole) andpoly(acrylamide-co-Methacryloamidopropyl-pentamethyl-1,3-propylene-2-ol-ammoniumdichloride), Suitable cationic polymers include Polyquaternium-1,Polyquaternium-5, Polyquaternium-6, Polyquaternium-7, Polyquaternium-8,Polyquaternium-10, Polyquaternium-11, Polyquaternium-14,Polyquaternium-22, Polyquaternium-28, Polyquaternium-30,Polyquaternium-32 and Polyquaternium-33, as named under theInternational Nomenclature for Cosmetic Ingredients.

In another aspect, the cationic polymer may comprise polyethyleneimineor a polyethyleneimine derivative. In another aspect, the cationicpolymer may comprise a cationic acrylic based polymer. In a furtheraspect, the cationic polymer may comprise a cationic polyacrylamide. Inanother aspect, the cationic polymer may comprise a polymer comprisingpolyacrylamide and polymethacrylamidoproply trimethylammonium cation. Inanother aspect, the cationic polymer may comprisepoly(acrylamide-N-dimethyl aminoethyl acrylate) and its quaternizedderivatives. In this aspect, the cationic polymer may be that sold underthe tradename SEDIPUR, available from BTC Specialty Chemicals, a BASFGroup, Florham Park, N.J. In a yet further aspect, the cationic polymermay comprise poly(acrylamide-co-methacrylamidopropyltrimethyl ammoniumchloride). In another aspect, the cationic polymer may comprise anon-acrylamide based polymer, such as that sold under the tradenameRHEOVIS CDE, available from Ciba Specialty Chemicals, a BASF group,Florham Park, N.J., or as disclosed in USPA 2006/0252668.

In another aspect, the cationic polymer may be selected from the groupconsisting of cationic polysaccharides. In one aspect, the cationicpolymer may be selected from the group consisting of cationic celluloseethers, cationic galactomanan, cationic guar gum, cationic starch, andcombinations thereof.

Another group of suitable cationic polymers may includealkylamine-epichlorohydrin polymers which are reaction products ofamines and oligoamines with epicholorohydrin, for example, thosepolymers listed in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,642,200 and 6,551,986.Examples include dimethylamine-epichlorohydrin-ethylenediamine,available under the trade name CARTAFIX CB, CARTAFIX TSF, available fromClariant, Basle, Switzerland.

Another group of suitable synthetic cationic polymers may includepolyamidoamine-epichlorohydrin (PAE) resins of polyalkylenepolyaminewith polycarboxylic acid. The most common PAE resins are thecondensation products of diethylenetriamine with adipic acid followed bya subsequent reaction with epichlorohydrin. They are available fromHercules Inc. of Wilmington DE under the trade name KYMENE from BASF AG(Ludwigshafen, Germany) under the trade name LURESIN.

The cationic polymers may contain charge neutralizing anions such thatthe overall polymer is neutral under ambient conditions. Non-limitingexamples of suitable counter ions (in addition to anionic speciesgenerated during use) include chloride, bromide, sulfate, methylsulfate,sulfonate, methylsulfonate, carbonate, bicarbonate, formate, acetate,citrate, nitrate, and mixtures thereof.

The weight-average molecular weight of the cationic polymer may be fromabout 500 to about 5,000,000, or from about 1,000 to about 2,000,000, orfrom about 5000 to about 1,000,000 Daltons, as determined by sizeexclusion chromatography relative to polyethyleneoxide standards with RIdetection. In one aspect, the weight-average molecular weight of thecationic polymer may be from about 100,000 to about 800,000 Daltons.

The cationic polymer can be provided in a powder form. The cationicpolymer can be provided in an anhydrous state.

Fatty Acid

The particles can comprise fatty acid. The term “fatty acid” is usedherein in the broadest sense to include unprotonated or protonated formsof a fatty acid. One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that thepH of an aqueous composition will dictate, in part, whether a fatty acidis protonated or unprotonated. The fatty acid may be in itsunprotonated, or salt form, together with a counter ion, such as, butnot limited to, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, and the like. Theterm “free fatty acid” means a fatty acid that is not bound to anotherchemical moiety (covalently or otherwise).

The fatty acid may include those containing from 12 to 25, from 13 to22, or even from 16 to 20, total carbon atoms, with the fatty moietycontaining from 10 to 22, from 12 to 18, or even from 14 (mid-cut) to 18carbon atoms.

The fatty acids may be derived from (1) an animal fat, and/or apartially hydrogenated animal fat, such as beef tallow, lard, etc.; (2)a vegetable oil, and/or a partially hydrogenated vegetable oil such ascanola oil, safflower oil, peanut oil, sunflower oil, sesame seed oil,rapeseed oil, cottonseed oil, corn oil, soybean oil, tall oil, rice branoil, palm oil, palm kernel oil, coconut oil, other tropical palm oils,linseed oil, tung oil, etc. ; (3) processed and/or bodied oils, such aslinseed oil or tung oil via thermal, pressure, alkali-isomerization andcatalytic treatments; (4) combinations thereof, to yield saturated (e.g.stearic acid), unsaturated (e.g. oleic acid), polyunsaturated (linoleicacid), branched (e.g. isostearic acid) or cyclic (e.g. saturated orunsaturated α-disubstituted cyclopentyl or cyclohexyl derivatives ofpolyunsaturated acids) fatty acids.

Mixtures of fatty acids from different fat sources can be used.

The cis/trans ratio for the unsaturated fatty acids may be important,with the cis/trans ratio (of the C18:1 material) being from at least1:1, at least 3:1, from 4:1 or even from 9:1 or higher.

Branched fatty acids such as isostearic acid are also suitable sincethey may be more stable with respect to oxidation and the resultingdegradation of color and odor quality.

The fatty acid may have an iodine value from 0 to 140, from 50 to 120 oreven from 85 to 105.

The particles can comprise from about 1% to about 40% by weight fattyacid. The fatty acid can be selected from the group consisting of, asaturated fatty acids, unsaturated fatty acid, and mixtures thereof. Thefatty acid can be a blend of saturated fatty acids, a blend ofunsaturated fatty acids, and mixtures thereof. The fatty acid can besubstituted or unsubstituted. The fatty acid can be provided with thequaternary ammonium compound. The fatty acid can have an Iodine Value ofzero.

The fatty acid can be selected from the group consisting of stearicacid, palmitic acid, coconut oil, palm kernel oil, stearic acid palmiticacid blend, oleic acid, vegetable oil, partially hydrogenated vegetableoil, and mixtures thereof.

The fatty acid can be Stearic acid CAS No. 57-11-4. The fatty acid canbe palmitic acid CAS No. 57-10-3. The fatty acid can be a blend ofstearic acid and coconut oil.

The fatty acid can be C12 to C22 fatty acid. C12 to C22 fatty acid canhave tallow or vegetable origin, can be saturated or unsaturated, can besubstituted or unsubstituted.

Without being bound by theory, fatty acid may help as a processing aidfor uniformly mixing the formulation components of the particles.

Particles

The particles can have individual mass from about 1 mg to about 1 g. Thesmaller the particles the faster they tend to dissolve in water. Theplurality of particles can have an individual or mean particle mass offrom about 1 mg to about 1000 mg, alternatively from about 5 mg to about500 mg, alternatively from about 5 mg to about 200 mg, alternativelyfrom about 10 mg to about 100 mg, alternatively from about 20 mg toabout 50 mg, alternatively from about 35 mg to about 45 mg,alternatively about 38 mg. The plurality of particles can have standarddeviation of mass of less than about 30 mg, alternatively less thanabout 15 mg, alternatively less than about 5 mg, alternatively about 3mg. The mean particle of mass within the aforesaid ranges can providefor a Dispersion Time in water that permits the particles to dissolveduring a typical wash cycle. Without being bound by theory, it isthought that particles have such a standard deviation of mass can have amore uniform Dispersion Time in water as compared to particles having abroader standard deviation of mass. The smaller the standard deviationof mass of the particles the more uniform the Dispersion Time. The massof the individual particles forming the plurality particles can be setto provide the desired Dispersion Time, which might be some fraction ofthe length of the typical washing cycle in a washing machine. Particlesformed from polyethylene glycol having a weight average molecular weightof about 9000 can have mean particle mass of about 38 mg and standarddeviation of mass of about 3 mg.

The plurality of particles can be substantially free from particleshaving a mass less than 10 mg. This can be practical for limiting theability of the particles to become airborne.

An individual particle may have a volume from about 0.003 cm³ to about 5cm³, optionally from about 0.003 cm³ to about 1 cm³, optionally fromabout 0.003 cm³ to about 0.5 cm³, optionally from about 0.003 cm³ toabout 0.2 cm³, optionally from about 0.003 cm³ to about 0.15 cm³.Smaller particles are thought to provide for better packing of theparticles in a container and faster dissolution in the wash.

The composition can comprise particles that are retained on a number 10sieve as specified by ASTM International, ASTM E11-13. The compositioncan comprise particles wherein more than about 50% by weight, optionallymore than about 70% by weight, optionally more than about 90% by weight,of the particles are retained on a number 10 sieve as specified by ASTMInternational, ASTM El 1-13. It can be desirable to provide particlessized as such because particles retained on a number 10 sieve may beeasier to handle than smaller particles.

The composition can comprise particles that are retained on a number 6sieve as specified by ASTM International, ASTM E11-13. The compositioncan comprise particles wherein more than about 50% by weight, optionallymore than about 70% by weight, optionally more than about 90% by weight,of the particles are retained on a number 6 sieve as specified by ASTMInternational, ASTM E11-13. It can be desirable to provide particlessized as such because particles retained on a number 6 sieve may beeasier to handle than smaller particles.

The composition can comprise particles that pass a sieve having anominal sieve opening size of 22.6 mm. The composition can compriseparticles that pass a sieve having a nominal sieve opening size of 22.6mm and are retained on a sieve having a nominal sieve opening size of0.841 mm. Particles having a size such that they are retained on a sievehaving a nominal opening size of 22.6 mm may tend to have a DispersionTime that is too great for a common wash cycle. Particles having a sizesuch that they pass a sieve having a nominal sieve opening size of 0.841mm may be too small to conveniently handle. Particles having a sizewithin the aforesaid bounds may represent an appropriate balance betweenDispersion Time and ease of particle handling.

Particles having the size disclosed herein can be substantial enough sothat they do not readily become airborne when poured from a container,dosing cup, or other apparatus, into a wash basin or washing machine.Further, such particles as disclosed herein might be able to be easilyand accurately poured from a container into a dosing cup. So, suchparticles may make it easy for the consumer to control the amount ofquaternary ammonium compound he or she delivers to the wash.

A plurality of particles may collectively comprise a dose for dosing toa laundry washing machine or laundry wash basin. A single dose of theparticles may comprise from about 1 g to about 50 g of particles. Asingle dose of the particles may comprise from about 5 g to about 50 g,alternatively from about 10 g to about 45 g, alternatively from about 20g to about 40 g, alternatively combinations thereof and any wholenumbers of grams or ranges of whole numbers of grams within any of theaforementioned ranges. The individual particles forming the plurality ofparticles that can make up the dose can have a mass from about 1 mg toabout 5000 mg, alternatively from about 1 mg to about 1000 mg,alternatively from about 5 mg to about 200 mg, alternatively from about10 mg to about 200 mg, alternatively from about 15 mg to about 50 mg,alternatively from about 20 mg to about 50 mg, alternatively from about35 mg to about 45 mg, alternatively about 38 mg, alternativelycombinations thereof and any whole numbers or ranges of whole numbers ofmg within any of the aforementioned ranges. The plurality of particlescan be made up of particles having different size, shape, and/or mass.The particles in a dose can each have a maximum dimension less thanabout 15 mm. Each of the particles in a dose can have a maximumdimension less than about 1 cm.

The particles can comprise an antioxidant. The antioxidant can help topromote stability of the color and or odor of the particles over timebetween production and use. The particles can comprise from about 0.01%to about 1% by weight antioxidant, optionally from about 0.001% to about2% by weight antioxidant, optionally from about 0.01% to about 0.1% byweight antioxidant. The antioxidant can be butylated hydroxytoluene.

The particles can have an onset of melt from about 25° C. to about 120°C., optionally about 30° C. to about 60° C., optionally about 35° C. toabout 50° C., optionally about 40° C., optionally from about 40° C. toabout 60° C. The onset of melt of particles is determined by the Onsetof Melt Test Method. Particles having an onset of melt from about 25° C.to about 120° C., optionally from about 40° C. to about 60° C., can bepractical for providing storage stability of the particles during one ormore time periods including but not limited to after production, duringpackaging, during shipment, during storage, and during use.

The particles can comprise about 67% by weight polyethylene glycolhaving a weight average molecular weight of about 9000; about 24% byweight di-(tallowoyloxyethl)-N,N-methylhydroyethylammonium methylsulfate; about 6% by weight fatty acid: and about 3% by weight cationicpolysaccharide that is polymeric quaternary ammonium salt ofhydroxyethylcellulose which has been reacted with an epoxide substitutedwith a trimethylammonium group. The particles can comprise about 60% byweight polyethylene glycol having a weight average molecular weight ofabout 9000; about 24% by weightdi-(tallowoyloxyethl)-N,N-methythydroyethylammonium methyl sulfate;about 6% by weight fatty acid; about 7% by weight unencapsulatedperfume, and about 3% by weight cationic polysaccharide that ispolymeric quaternary ammonium salt of hydroxyethylcellulose which hasbeen reacted with an epoxide substituted with a trimethylammonium group.

The composition described herein can comprise a plurality of particles.The particles can comprise about 25% to about 94% by weight polyethyleneglycol having a weight average molecular weight from about 2000 to about13000; about 5% to about 45% by weight a quaternary ammonium compound;and about 0.5% to about 10% by weight a cationic polymer; wherein eachof said particles has a mass from about 1 mg to about 1 g; and whereinsaid composition has a viscosity from about 1 Pa-s to about 10 Pa-s at65° C., from about 1 Pa-s to about 5 Pa-s at 65° C., optionally fromabout 1.5 to about 4, optionally from about 1 Pa-s to about 3 Pa-s,optionally about 2. Compositions such as this can be convenientlyprocessed as a melt. Further, compositions such as this may be processedon a rotoformer and yield particles that are hemispherical, compressedhemispherical, or particles having at least one substantially flat orflat surface. Such particles may have relatively high surface area tomass as compared to spherical particles. The practicality of processingmelts can at least partially depend on the viscosity of the melt.

For any of the compositions described herein, it can be desirable forthe compositions to have a viscosity from about 1 Pa-s to about 10 Pa-sat 65° C., from about 1 Pa-s to about 5 Pa-s at 65° C., optionally fromabout 1.5 to about 4, optionally from about 1 Pa-s to about 3 Pa-s,optionally about 2. Such compositions may be conveniently processed on arotoformer and yield particles that are hemispherical, compressedhemispherical, or particles having at least one substantially flat orflat surface.

The viscosity of the particles at 65° C. can be controlled, by way ofnonlimiting example, by adding a diluent to the composition. Theparticles can comprise a diluent. The diluent can be selected from thegroup consisting of perfume, dipropylene glycol, fatty acid, andcombinations thereof.

The particles disclosed herein can be homogeneously structured particlesor substantially homogeneously structured particles. A substantiallyhomogenously structured particle is a particle in which the componentmaterials forming the particle are substantially homogeneously mixedwith one another. A substantially homogeneously structure particle neednot be perfectly homogeneous. There may be variations in the degree ofhomogeneity that is within limits of mixing processes used by thoseskilled in the art in commercial applications to manufacturesubstantially homogeneously structured particles or homogeneouslystructured particles. The particles can have a continuous phase ofcarrier. Each of the particles can be a continuous phase of a mixture ofthe component materials forming the particle. So, for instance, if theparticles comprise component materials A, B, and C, the particles can bea continuous phase of a mixture A, B, and C. The same can be said forany number of component materials forming the particles, by way ofnonlimiting example, three, four, five, or more component materials.

A homogeneously structured particle is not a particle that has a coreand coating, the particle being discrete from other particles having thesame structure. A substantially homogeneously or homogeneouslystructured particle can be non-mechanically separable. That is, thecomponent materials forming the homogeneously structured particle maynot be mechanically separated, for instance by a knife or fine pick.

Homogeneously structured particles can be substantially free or freefrom inclusions having a size greater than about 500 μm. Homogeneouslystructured particles can be substantially free from or free frominclusions having a size greater than about 200 μm. Homogeneouslystructured particles can be substantially free from or free frominclusions having a size greater than about 100 μm. Without being boundby theory, an abundance of large inclusions may be undesirable becausethey might interfere with the dissolution of the particle in the wash orleave visually perceptible residue on the articles being washed.

In a substantially homogeneous particle, the constituent materials canbe substantially randomly or randomly dispersed or the constituentmaterials can be substantially randomly or randomly dispersed in thecarrier. Without being bound by theory, substantially homogeneousstructured particles are thought to possibly be less capital intense toproduce and the processes to produce such particles are thought toresult in more uniform particles which are more acceptable to theconsumer.

The particles disclosed herein, in any of the embodiments or combinationdisclosed, can have a shape selected from the group consisting of asphere, hemisphere, oblate sphere, cylindrical, polyhedral, and oblatehemisphere. The particles disclosed herein can have ratio of maximumdimension to minimum dimension from about 10 to 1, optionally from about8 to 1, optionally about 5 to 1, optionally about 3 to 1, optionallyabout 2 to 1. The particles disclosed herein can be shaped such that theparticles are not flakes. Particles having a ratio of maximum dimensionto minimum dimension greater than about 10 or that are flakes can tendto be fragile such the particles are prone to becoming dusty. Thefragility of the particles tends to decrease with decreasing values ofthe ratio of maximum dimension to minimum dimension.

Process for Treating an Article of Clothing

The particles disclosed herein enable consumers to achieve softeningthrough the wash, in particular the wash sub-cycle. By providingsoftening through the wash sub-cycle, consumers only need to dose thedetergent composition and the particles to a single location, forexample the wash basin, prior to or shortly after the start of thewashing machine. This can be more convenient to consumers than using aliquid fabric enhancer that is separately dispensed into the wash basinafter the wash sub-cycle is completed, for example prior to, during, orin between rinse cycles. For instance, in can be inconvenient for theconsumer to manually dispense fabric softening composition aftercompletion of the wash sub-cycle since the consumer must monitorprogress of the sub-cycles of the washing machine, interrupt progress ofthe cycles of the washing machine, open the washing machine, anddispensing fabric softening composition into the wash basin. It canfurther be inconvenient to use auto-dispensing features of modernupright and high efficiency machines since that requires dispensing thefabric softening composition to a location other than where detergentcomposition is dispensed.

The process for treating an article of clothing can comprise the stepsof providing an article of clothing in a washing machine. The article ofclothing is contacted during the wash sub-cycle of the washing machinewith a composition comprising a plurality of the particles disclosedherein. The particles can dissolve into water provided as part of thewash sub-cycle to form a liquor. The dissolution of the particles canoccur during the wash sub-cycle.

The particles can comprise the constituent components at the weightfractions described herein. For example, the particles can compriseabout 25% to about 94% by weight a water soluble carrier. The particlescan further comprise about 5% to about 45% by weight a quaternaryammonium compound. Optionally, the Iodine Value of the parent fatty acidfrom which the quaternary ammonium compound is formed can be from about18 to about 60. The particles can further comprise about 0.5% to about10% a cationic polymer. The particles can each have an individual massfrom about 1 mg to about 1 g. The particles can have an onset of meltfrom about 25° C. to about 120° C.

Washing machines have at least two basic sub-cycles within a cycle ofoperation: a wash sub-cycle and a rinse sub-cycle. The wash sub-cycle ofa washing machine is the cycle on the washing machine that commencesupon first filling or partially filing the wash basin with water. A mainpurpose of the wash sub-cycle is to remove and or loosen soil from thearticle of clothing and suspend that soil in the wash liquor. Typically,the wash liquor is drained at the end of the wash sub-cycle. The rinsesub-cycle of a washing machine occurs after the wash sub-cycle and has amain purpose of rinsing soil, and optionally some benefit agentsprovided to the wash sub-cycle from the article of clothing.

The process can optionally comprise a step of contacting the article ofclothing during the wash sub-cycle with a detergent compositioncomprising an anionic surfactant. Most consumers provide a detergentcomposition to the wash basin during the wash sub-cycle. Detergentcompositions can comprise anionic surfactant, and optionally otherbenefit agents including but not limited to perfume, bleach,brighteners, hueing dye, enzyme, and the like. During the washsub-cycle, the benefit agents provided with the detergent compositionare contacted with or applied to the article of clothing disposed in thewash basin. Typically, the benefit agents of detergent compositions aredispersed in a wash liquor of water and the benefit agents.

During the wash sub-cycle, the wash basin may be filled or at leastpartially filled with water. The particles can dissolve into the waterto form a wash liquor comprising the components of the particles.Optionally, if a detergent composition is employed, the wash liquor caninclude the components of the detergent composition and the particles ordissolved particles. The particles can be placed in the wash basin ofthe washing machine before the article of clothing is placed in the washbasin of the washing machine. The particles can be placed in the washbasin of the washing machine after the article of clothing is placed inthe wash basin of the washing machine. The particles can be placed inthe wash basin prior to filling or partially filling the wash basin withwater or after filling of the wash basin with water has commenced.

If a detergent composition is employed by the consumer in practicing theprocess of treating an article of clothing, the detergent compositionand particles can be provided from separate packages. For instance, thedetergent composition can be a liquid detergent composition providedfrom a bottle, sachet, water soluble pouch, dosing cup, dosing ball, orcartridge associated with the washing machine. The particles can beprovided from a separate package, by way of non-limiting example, acarton, bottle, water soluble pouch, dosing cup, sachet, or the like. Ifthe detergent composition is a solid form, such as a powder, watersoluble fibrous substrate, water soluble sheet, water soluble film,water soluble film, water insoluble fibrous web carrying solid detergentcomposition, the particles can be provided with the solid form detergentcomposition. For instance, the particles can be provided from acontainer containing a mixture of the solid detergent composition andthe particles. Optionally, the particles can be provided from a pouchformed of a detergent composition that is a water soluble fibroussubstrate, water soluble sheet, water soluble film, water soluble film,water insoluble fibrous web carrying solid detergent composition.

Production of Particles

For a carrier that can be processed conveniently as a melt, therotoforming process can be used. A mixture of molten carrier and theother materials constituting the particles is prepared, for instance ina batch or continuous mixing process. The molten mixture can be pumpedto a rotoformer, for instance a Sandvik ROTOFORM 3000 having a 750 mmwide 10 m long belt. The rotoforming apparatus can have a rotatingcylinder. The cylinder can have 2 mm diameter apertures set at a 10 mmpitch in the cross machine direction and 9.35 mm pitch in the machinedirection. The cylinder can be set at approximately 3 mm above the belt.The belt speed and rotational speed of the cylinder can be set at about10 m/min. The molten mixture can be passed through the apertures in therotating cylinder and deposited on a moving conveyor that is providedbeneath the rotating cylinder.

The molten mixture can be cooled on the moving conveyor to form aplurality of solid particles. The cooling can be provided by ambientcooling. Optionally the cooling can be provided by spraying theunder-side of the conveyor with ambient temperature water or chilledwater.

Once the particles are sufficiently coherent, the particles can betransferred from the conveyor to processing equipment downstream of theconveyor for further processing and or packaging.

Optionally, the particles can be provided with inclusions of a gas. Suchocclusions of gas, for example air, can help the particles dissolve morequickly in the wash. Occlusions of gas can be provided, by way ofnonlimiting example, by injecting gas into the molten precursor materialand milling the mixture.

Particles can also be made using other approaches. For instance,granulation or press agglomeration can be appropriate. In granulation,the precursor material containing the constituent materials of theparticles is compacted and homogenized by rotating mixing tools andgranulated to form particles. For precursor materials that aresubstantially free of water, a wide variety of sizes of particles can bemade.

In press agglomeration, the precursor material containing theconstituent materials of the particles is compacted and plasticizedunder pressure and under the effect of shear forces, homogenized andthen discharged from the press agglomeration machine via aforming/shaping process. Press agglomeration techniques includeextrusion, roller compacting, pelleting, and tableting.

The precursor material containing the constituent materials of theparticles can be delivered to a planetary roll extruder or twin screwextruder having co-rotating or contra-rotating screws. The barrel andthe extrusion granulation head can be heated to the desired extrusiontemperature. The precursor material containing the constituent materialsof the particles can be compacted under pressure, plasticized, extrudedin the form of strands through a multiple-bore extrusion die in theextruder head, and sized using a cutting blade. The bore diameter of theof extrusion header can be selected to provide for appropriately sizedparticles. The extruded particles can be shaped using a spheronizer toprovide for particles that have a spherical shape.

Optionally, the extrusion and compression steps may be carried out in alow-pressure extruder, such as a flat die pelleting press, for exampleas available from Amandus Kahl, Reinbek,

Germany. Optionally, the extrusion and compression steps may be carriedout in a low pressure extruder, such as a BEXTRUDER, available fromHosokawa Alpine Aktiengesellschaft, Augsburg, Germany.

The particles can be made using roller compacting. In roller compactingthe precursor material containing the constituent materials of theparticles is introduced between two rollers and rolled under pressurebetween the two rollers to form a sheet of compactate. The rollersprovide a high linear pressure on the precursor material. The rollerscan be heated or cooled as desired, depending on the processingcharacteristics of the precursor material. The sheet of compactate isbroken up into small pieces by cutting. The small pieces can be furthershaped, for example by using a spheronizer.

Onset of Melt Test Method

Onset of melt is determined using the Onset of Melt Test Method asfollows. Differential Scanning calorimetry (DSC) is used to quantify thetemperature at which the onset of melt occurs for the peak melttransition of any given composition of particles to be tested. The melttemperature measurements are made using a high quality DSC instrumentwith accompanying software and nitrogen purge capability, such as TAInstruments' model Discovery DSC (TA Instruments Inc./WatersCorporation, New Castle, Del., U.S.A.). A calibration check is conductedusing an Indium standard sample. The DSC instrument is consideredsuitable to conduct the test if the onset of melt temperature measuredfor the Indium standard sample is within the range of 156.3-157.3° C.

A plurality of particles of the test composition are examined toidentify individual particles which comprise a first class of particleversus those which comprise a second class of particle, and those thatcomprise any additional number of classes which may be present. Theprocess of examining a plurality of particles to achieve such classidentifications may include many approaches, including the examinationand comparison of individual particles by visual inspection, examinationand comparison of individual particles based on chemical makeup, and bychemical testing to determine the presence or absence of quaternaryammonium compound, cationic polymer, or perfumes in the individualparticles. Test compositions are to be tested on a per class basis(i.e., by physically separating individual particles according to theirclass, thus creating internally uniform samples wherein each samplecomprises a single class of particle). These samples are used to testparticles from each class separately from particles of other classes.The results measured for each class of particle are reported separately(i.e. on a per class basis).

For each class of particle present in the test composition, a uniformtest sample is prepared by obtaining at least 5 g of particles, whichare then pulverised via milling into powder form using an analyticalmilling device, such as the IKA basic analytical mill model A11 B S1(IKA-Werke GmbH & Co. KG, Staufen im Breisgau, Germany). The milledsample is subsequently sieved through a clean stainless steel sieve withsieve mesh size openings of nominally 1 mm in diameter (e.g. number 18mesh size). For each sample to be tested, at least two replicate samplesare independently milled and measured. A sample of the milled materialweighing approximately 5 mg is placed into the bottom of a hermeticaluminium DSC sample pan, and the sample is spread out to cover the baseof the pan. A hermetic aluminium lid is placed on the sample pan, andthe lid is sealed with a sample encapsulating press to preventevaporation or weight loss during the measurement process. The DSCmeasurements are conducted relative to a reference standard. An emptyaluminum DSC sample pan used as the reference standard, in order tomeasure the delta in heat adsorption of the sample-containing pan versusthe empty reference pan.

The DSC instrument is set up to analyze samples using the followingcycle configuration selections: Sample Purge Gas is nitrogen set at 50mL/min; Sampling Interval is set at 0.1 s/point; Equilibrate is set at−20.00° C.; Isothermal Hold is set at 1 min. Data is collected during asingle heating cycle using the settings: Ramp is set at 10.00° C./min to90.00° C.; and Isothermal Hold is set at 90.00° C. for 1 min. A sealedsample pan containing a replicate test sample is carefully loaded intothe instrument, as is an empty reference pan. The DSC analysis cyclespecified above is conducted and the output data is assessed. The dataacquired during the DSC heating cycle is typically plotted withTemperature on the X-axis (in ° C.) and Heat Flow normalized to sampleweight (in W/g) on the Y-axis, such that melting points appear asdownward (endothermic) peaks since they absorb energy.

A melt transition onset temperature is the temperature at which adeflection is first observed from the baseline previously establishedfor the melt temperature of interest. The Peak Melt temperature is thespecific temperature that requires the largest observed differentialenergy to transition the sample from a solid phase to a melt phase,during the specified DSC heating cycle. For the purpose of thisinvention, the Onset of Melt temperature is defined as the melttransition onset temperature for the Peak Melt temperature. Additionalgeneral information on the DSC technique may be found in the industrystandard method ASTM D3418-03—Transition Temperatures of Polymers byDSC.

Using the DSC instrument software, two points are manually defined asthe “Start and Stop Integration” baseline limits. The two pointsselected are on flat regions of the baseline to the left and rightsides, respectively, of the melt transition peak detected. This definedarea is then used to determine the peak temperature (T) which can beused to report the Peak Melt Temperature. The Onset of Melt temperaturefor the Peak Melt temperature is then identified by the instrumentsoftware.

For each class of particle in a test composition, the Onset of Melttemperature reported is the average result (in ° C.) from the replicatesamples of that class of particle.

Dispersion Test Method

The Dispersion Time of particles is determined according to thefollowing test method.

A magnetic stir bar and 500 mL of 25 C. 137 parts per million hardnesswater are placed into a 600 mL capacity glass beaker located on top of astir plate set at a stir speed of 400 rpm. The temperature of the wateris maintained at 25° C. Five particles are added into the beaker ofstirring water, and a timer is started immediately at the same time. Theparticles are then observed visually by eye under well-lit laboratoryconditions without the aid of laboratory magnification devices, tomonitor and assess the appearance and size of the particles with regardto its dispersion and disintegration. This visual assessment may requirethe use of a flash light or other bright light source to ensure accurateobservations.

The visual assessment is conducted every 10 seconds over the 60 minutetime period after the addition of the particles to the stirring water.If the dispersion of the particles results in the particles becomingvisually undetectable as discrete objects, then the time point at whichthis first occurs is noted. If the dispersion of the particles resultsin a stable visual appearance after which no additional dispersion ordisintegration is observed, then the time point at which this stableappearance first occurs is noted. A value of 60 min is assigned if theparticles or remnants thereof are still visible at the 60 minutes timepoint and it appears that the particles or remnants thereof are stillundergoing dispersion or disintegration immediately prior to the 60 mintime point. For each composition being tested, the assessment isperformed on ten samples from the composition to provide ten replicatemeasurements. The time values noted for the ten replicates are averaged,and this average value is reported as the Dispersion Time valuedetermined for that composition.

Viscosity Test Method

The viscosity of a component of the consumer product composition, e.g. ahydrophobic conditioning agent or carrier material, is determined asfollows.

For a given component, the viscosity reported is the viscosity value asmeasured by the following method, which generally represents theinfinite-shear viscosity (or infinite-rate viscosity) of the component.Viscosity measurements are made with a TA Discovery HR-2 HybridRheometer (TA Instruments, New Castle, Del., U.S.A.), and accompanyingTRIOS software version 3.0.2.3156. The instrument is outfitted with a 40mm stainless steel Parallel Plate (TA Instruments, cat. #511400.901),Peltier plate (TA Instruments cat. #533230.901), and Solvent Trap Cover(TA Instruments, cat. #511400.901). The calibration is done inaccordance with manufacturer recommendations. A refrigerated,circulating water bath set to 25° C. is attached to the Peltier plate.The Peltier Plate temperature is set to 65° C. The temperature ismonitored within the Control Panel until the instrument reaches the settemperature, then an additional 5 minutes is allowed to elapse to ensureequilibration before loading sample material onto the Peltier plate.

To load a liquid material (e.g. a hydrophobic conditioning agent),pre-melt the sample in an oven set to 70 C., and use a transfer pipetteis used to transfer 2 ml of the liquid material onto the center surfaceof the Peltier plate. To load a non-liquid material (e.g. a carriermaterial), 2 grams of non-liquid material is added onto the centersurface of the Peltier plate, and the sample is allowed to completelyliquefy. If the loaded sample liquid contains visible bubbles, a periodof 10 minutes is waited to allow the bubbles to migrate through thesample and burst, or a transfer pipette can be used to extract thebubbles. If bubbles still remain, then the sample is removed from theplate, the plate is cleaned with isopropanol wipe and the solvent isallowed to evaporate away. The sample loading procedure is thenattempted again and repeated until a sample is loaded successfullywithout containing visible bubbles.

The parallel plate is lowered into position in several stages, with thegap distance initially set at 50 millimeters. After waiting 60 secondswith the plate at that gap distance, the parallel plate is furtherlowered into position with the gap distance set at 1 millimeter.

After the parallel plate is locked, any excess sample material isremoved from the perimeter of the parallel plate using rubber policeman.It is important to ensure that the sample is evenly distributed aroundthe edge of the parallel plate and there is no sample on the side or topof plate. If there is sample material on the side or top of the plate,this excess material is gently removed. The Solvent Trap Cover iscarefully applied over the parallel plate.

The Instrument Procedures and Settings (IPS) Used are as Follows:

1) Conditioning Step (pre-condition the sample) under the “EnvironmentalControl” label: “Temperature” is 65° C., “Inherit set point” is notselected, “Soak time” is 10.0 s, “Wait for temperature” is selected;under the “Wait for axial force” label: “Wait for axial force” is notselected; under the “Preshear options” label: “Perform preshear” is notselected; under the “Equilibration” label: “Perform equilibration” isselected, and “Duration” is 120 s.

2) Flow Peak Hold Step under the “Environmental Control” label:“Temperature is 25° C., “Inherit set point” is selected, “Soak time” is0.0 s, “Wait for temperature” is not selected; under the “TestParameters” label: “Duration” is 60 sec, “Shear rate” is 2.76 1/sec,“Inherent initial value” is not selected, “Number of points” is 20;under the “Controlled Rate Advanced” label: “Motor mode” is Auto; underthe “Data acquisition” label: “End of Step” is Zero Torque, “FastSampling” and “Save image” are not selected; under the “Steptermination” label: “Label checking: Enabled” is not selected, nor are“Equilibrium: Enabled” or “Step Repeat: Enabled” selected.

3) To measure the viscosity of the sample at additional temperatures,Step #1 above “Conditioning Step” is programed as the next step, and the“Temperature” is set to 60 C. (under the “Environmental Control”). Allother parameters are kept the same.

4) Flow Peak Hold Step is repeated exactly as written in Step #2 above,for this new temperature.

5) Steps #3 and #4 are continued using the following temperatures in theConditioning Step: 55° C., 53° C., 52° C., 51° C., 50° C., 49° C., 48°C.

After collecting the data, the data set is opened in the TRIOS software.The data points are analyzed in the following way:

-   -   In the Peak Hold tab of the data, select Peak Hold—1        (corresponding to the data obtained at 65° C.). Report the        average (mean) value of the Viscosity as expressed in units of        Pa-s.    -   If desired, repeat this analysis to obtain the average (mean)        viscosity value for the additional temperatures evaluated.        The reported viscosity value of the component measured is the        average (mean) viscosity from three independent viscosity        measurements (i.e. three replicate sample preparations) and is        expressed in units of Pa·s

Particle Dissolution and Coefficient of Friction Testing

Specimens of particles were prepared to determine the particledissolution time in water. The specimens were prepared by providingpolyethylene glycol having a weight average molecular weight of 9000 ina speed mix cup (Max 100 SPEEDMIX Cup) and placing the cup of materialin an oven having a temperature of 80 C. overnight to melt. The speedcup of polyethylene glycol was removed from the oven in the morning andthe quaternary ammonium compound and cationic hydroxyethyl cellulosewere then added to the speed mix cup. The speed cup of polyethyleneglycol, quaternary ammonium compound, and cationic hydroxyethylcellulose was placed into an oven having a temperature of 80 C. for fourhours. The speed cup of materials was removed from the oven and placedinto a SPEEDMIXER DAC 150 FVC-K (FLAK TEK Inc.) for 30 seconds at 3500revolutions per minute. The mixture was then immediately poured onto arubber mold that was initially at room temperature and spread with aspatula into depressions in the rubber mold. The mixture hardened in thedepressions of the rubber mold to form the particles. The hardenedparticles were removed from the rubber mold. The mold shape was anoblate hemisphere having a diameter of 5.0 mm and a height of 2.5.Particle dissolution time testing was performed as follows. 500 mL of 25C., 137 parts per million hardness was placed into a 600 mL beaker. A 41mm×8 mm stir bar was placed in the beaker. The beaker was then place ona stir plate and stirred at 400 revolutions per minute. 0.4 mL of TIDEFREE detergent, available from THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY, was addedand mixed for 30 seconds. Five particles, each having a mass of 38 mg+/−3 mg, were simultaneously added to the beaker and a timer wasstarted. The time at which the mixture attained a stable visualappearance was determined by visual observation and recorded as theparticle dissolution time. Globules of quaternary ammonium compound wereobserved upon dissolution of the particles.

For reference, a particle consisting of 100% by weight polyethyleneglycol having a weight average molecular weight of 9000 had a particledissolution time of 11 minutes.

Table 1 lists the particle dissolution time for various preparedspecimens of particles. To benchmark the dissolution testing results inTable 1 in which the particles were dissolved in a solution containingdetergent against the Dispersion Test Method, which does not includedetergent in the solution, the Dispersion Time was measured for theseries of particles under footnote 4 and the results are shown inparentheses. For that series of particles, the dissolution time in asolution containing detergent and the Dispersion Time tend to increasewith increasing weight percent of quaternary ammonium compound.

TABLE 1 Particle dissolution time in a solution containing detergentcomposition of particles consisting of the listed weight percent ofquaternary ammonium compound, 3% by weight cationic hydroxyethylcellulose¹, and balance polyethylene glycol (note Footnote 7 regardingtimes reported in parentheses). Weight Percent of Particle DissolutionTime (minutes) Quaternary Ammonium Iodine Value of Quaternary AmmoniumCompound Compound 20² 20³ —^(4,7) 42⁵ 56⁶ Polyethylene Glycol, WeightAverage Molecular Weight = 9000 50 60 >60^(a) >60^(b) (>60) >60^(b)38^(c) 45 — —   50 (52) — — 40 47 >60   35 (40)   60 50 30 40   34   27(29)   30 25 20 30   22   20 (20)   18 15 10 15   17   16 (16)   15 15Polyethylene Glycol, Weight Average Molecular Weight = 4000 20 20   10 ——  9 Polyethylene Glycol, Weight Average Molecular Weight = 2000 20  9 —— — — ¹Cationic hydroxyethyl cellulose having a weight average molecularweight of 400 kDa, a charge density of 0.18, and an average weightpercent of nitrogen per anydroglucose repeat unit of 0.28% (Polymer PKavailable from Dow Chemical). ²DEEDMAC (Di-tallowoylethanolesterdimethylammonium chloride), where the fatty acid moieties have an IodineValue of ~18-22; about 20. (approximately 9% by weight ethanol and 3% byweight coconut oil). ³REWOQUAT DIP V 20M CONC available from EVONIK;bis-(2-hydroxypropyl)-dimethylammonium methylsulphate fatty acid ester

wherein R₁ and R₂ is each independently a C₁₅-C₁₇, and wherein theC₁₅-C₁₇ is unsaturated or saturated, branched or linear, substituted orunsubstituted. ⁴Blend of 80% by weight of material of footnote 5 and 20%by weight fatty acid having an Iodine Value of 0 (fatty acid a blend ofstearic acid and palmitic acid). ⁵C18 Unsaturated DEEHMAMS (DiethylEster Hydroxyethyl Methyl Ammonium Methyl Sulphate) from EVONIK.⁶DEEDMAC (Di-tallowoylethanolester dimethylammonium chloride), where thefatty acid moieties have an Iodine Value of ~50-60; about 56.(approximately 13% by weight ethanol) ⁷Times reported in parenthesis arethe Dispersion Time, measured in a solution without detergentcomposition in contrast to the particle dissolution time. ^(a)Only about25% dissolved after 60 minutes. ^(b)Only about 50% dissolved after 60minutes. ^(c)Specimens of particles were soft that they likely would bedifficult to handle, package, ship, and store.

As shown in Table 1, as the Iodine Value increases, the particledissolution time tends to decrease. Further, the particle dissolutiontime tends to decrease with decreasing weight average molecular weightof polyethylene glycol. Further, the particle dissolution time tends toincrease with increasing weight percent of quaternary ammonium compound.It was also observed that globules of quaternary ammonium compoundtended to be smaller at lower weight fractions of quaternary ammoniumcompound as compared to higher weight fractions. It was further observedthat globules of quaternary ammonium compound tended to be smaller forthe particles comprising polyethylene glycol having a weight averagemolecular weight of 9000 as compared to particles comprisingpolyethylene glycol having a weight average molecular weight of 4000 or2000.

Further dissolution testing was conducted to evaluate the effect of theaddition of fatty acid and dipropylene glycol to the particles. Thedissolution testing was performed in the same manner as that used forthe compositions in Table 1.

TABLE 2 Particle dissolution time of particles consisting of the listedweight percent of quaternary ammonium compound, fatty acid, anddipropylene glycol, 3% by weight cationic hydroxyethyl cellulose havinga weight average molecular weight of 400 kDa, a charge density of 0.18,and an average weight percent of nitrogen per anydroglucose repeat unitof 0.28%, and balance of polyethylene glycol having a weight averagemolecular weight of 9000. Particle Dissolution Time (minutes) ReplicateReplicate Quaternary Ammonium Compound 1 2 Average (Type A Particles)30% by weight C18 30 30 30 Unsaturated DEEHMAMS (Diethyl EsterHydroxyethyl Methyl Ammonium Methyl Sulphate) from EVONIK (Type BParticles) 24% by weight C18 20 25 22 Unsaturated DEEHMAMS (DiethylEster Hydroxyethyl Methyl Ammonium Methyl Sulphate) from EVONIK and 6%by weight fatty acid (Iodine Value = 0) (Type C Particles) 24% by weightC18 22 22 22 Unsaturated DEEHMAMS (Diethyl Ester Hydroxyethyl MethylAmmonium Methyl Sulphate) from EVONIK and 6% by weight dipropyleneglycol (Type D Particles) 24% by weight C18 22 22 22 UnsaturatedDEEHMAMS (Diethyl Ester Hydroxyethyl Methyl Ammonium Methyl Sulphate)from EVONIK

As shown in Table 2, the particles having a 24% by weight of saidmaterial had a lower particle dissolution time than particles having 30%by weight said material.

The coefficient of friction of 100% terry cloth fabric washed in aliquor containing dissolved particles having the same compositions asthose described in Table 2 was evaluated. For each composition, tenreplicate fabrics were washed and the coefficient of friction wasmeasured.

FIG. 1 is a graph of the average coefficient of friction for the terrycloths washed in a liquor containing 20 g of the respective dissolvedparticles and 50 g of TIDE ORIGINAL SCENT. Also shown are barsrepresenting the plus minus the standard deviation.

As shown in FIG. 1, terry cloths washed in a liquor containing 50 g ofTIDE ORIGINAL SCENT plus 20 g of dissolved particles that included thequaternary ammonium compound had a lower coefficient of frictioncompared to the coefficient of friction of the terry cloths washed indetergent only. Notably, the particles designated as Type B, whichincluded 6% by weight fatty acid, resulted in a lower coefficient offriction than the particles designated as TYPE D, which did not includefatty acid, both types having same weight fraction of quaternaryammonium compound. And, as shown in Table 2, they Type B and Type Dparticles had approximately the same average particle dissolution time.So, the additional reduced coefficient of friction benefit obtained byusing Type B particles over Type D particles may be achieved without acorresponding increase in particle dissolution time

To evaluate the effect of viscosity of the compositions at 65° C. onparticle formation, molten precursor materials of the particles wasdropped onto a flat laboratory benchtop and allowed to cool. Theviscosity at 65° C. of the compositions are listed in Table 3.

TABLE 3 Viscosity (Pa-s) at 65° C. of particles. Particles Viscosity at65° C. Pa-s Type A Particles 6.12 Type B Particles 3.92 Type C Particles3.99 Type D Particles 5.52

Photographs of the particles are shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 2,the Type B and Type C particles, which had viscosities at 65° C. of 3.92and 3.99, respectively, the particles formed had at least onesubstantially flat surface. The Type A particles tended to ball up onthe surface upon which they were deposited. Particles having ahemispherical or compressed hemispherical shape might have a lowerDispersion Time as compared to more rounded or chunky particles. Some ofthe Type D particles had protruding parts which may break off duringprocessing, packing, shipping, shelving, transportation home, andpouring, which might result in a dust being formed from the particles.

To evaluate the effect of cationic polymer on efficacy of the particlesfor delivering a fabric softening benefit, the battery of tests listedin Table 4 was performed. Chinese Haier XQS75-BYD1228 washing machineswere used. Each machine was set to run a Normal single cycle including a10 minute soak period, a 14 minute wash agitation period, and 2 separate5-minute rinses (drain and filling water for each rinse). The water usedwas 257 ppm hardness and 25° C. for all soak, wash, rinse steps. Thewater volume at each step was 30 Liters. The total fabric load weightwas 1.7 kg (which includes 10 test fabric hand towel terry cloths, andthe remaining ballast consisting of half cotton fabric only and half50/50 poly-cotton blend). The detergent used was ARIEL MATIC liquiddetergent from China (produced by The Procter & Gamble Company). 64 g ofdetergent was dosed into the wash water while the wash water wasfilling. After the detergent was added, 12.5 g of the particles beingevaluated were also added, followed by the fabric load. After the waterfill was complete, the machine entered the soak period. This wasfollowed by the wash agitation (Normal setting), and each rinse step(with corresponding spin cycle). After the wash process was completed,the fabrics were removed. The test fabric terry cloths were line driedfor 36-48 hours in a 21° C./50% relative humidity controlled room. Afterthe test fabric terry cloths had equilibrated, the coefficient offriction of each terry was evaluated. The kinematic coefficient offriction was measured using a Thwing Albert Friction/Peel Tester FP-2250by attaching a swatch cut from the terry cloth to a sled and draggingthe sled over a portion of the remaining terry cloth at a fixed rate.The kinematic coefficient of friction data reported in Tables 4-7 wereall measured using the same method and instrumentation. The average forthe 10 terry cloths washed in the respective product are reported inTable 4.

TABLE 4 Average coefficient of friction of terries. Average CoefficientProduct of Friction ARIEL MATIC liquid detergent, 64 g 1.42 ARIEL MATICliquid detergent, 64 g 1.08 12.8 g particles of the formula: 20% byweight quaternary ammonium compound¹; 3% by weight cationic polymer²;77% by weight polyethylene glycol having a weight average molecularweight of 9000 ARIEL MATIC liquid detergent, 64 g 1.21 12.8 g particlesof the formula: 3% by weight cationic polymer²; 97% by weightpolyethylene glycol having a weight average molecular weight of 9000ARIEL MATIC liquid detergent, 64 g 1.39 12.8 g particles of the formula:20% by weight quaternary ammonium compound¹; 80% by weight polyethyleneglycol having a weight average molecular weight of 9000 ¹DEEDMAC(Di-tallowoylethanolester dimethylammonium chloride), where the fattyacid moieties have an Iodine Value of ~18-22; e.g. 20. (approximately 9%by weight ethanol and 3% by weight coconut oil). ²cationic hydroxyethylcellulose having a weight average molecular weight of 400 kDa, a chargedensity of 0.18, and an average weight percent of nitrogen peranydroglucose repeat unit of 0.28%.

As shown in Table 4, the terry cloths laundered with particlescontaining 20% by weight quaternary ammonium compound, 3% by weightcationic polymer, 77% by weight polyethylene glycol having a weightaverage molecular weight of 9000 had a lower coefficient of frictionthan the terry cloths washed in detergent alone. Further, thecombination quaternary ammonium compound and cationic polymer delivereda lower coefficient of friction compared to particles without cationicpolymer.

To evaluate the efficacy of various quaternary ammonium compounds fordelivering a fabric softening benefit, the battery of tests listed inTable 5 was performed. North America Kenmore 80 Series top-loadingwashing machines were used. Each machine was set to run a

Normal single cycle including a 12 minute wash agitation period, and 1three-minute rinse. The water used was 137 ppm hardness and 25° C. forthe wash, and 15.5° C. for the rinse. The water volume at each step was64 Liters. The total fabric load weight was 3.6 kg (which includes 10test fabric hand towel terry cloths, and the remaining ballastconsisting of half cotton fabric only and half 50/50 poly-cotton blend).The detergent used was TIDE ORIGINAL SCENT liquid detergent (produced byThe Procter & Gamble Company). 84.3 g of detergent was dosed into thewash water while the wash water was filling. After the detergent wasadded, 30.8 g of the particles being evaluated were also added, followedby the fabric load. After the water fill was complete, the machineentered the agitation period. For the DOWNY treatment, the DOWNY,available from The Procter & Gamble Company, was added into the rinsecycle as the rinse water was 2/3 filled, and the DOWNY was dosed at 48.5g. This was followed by the wash agitation (Normal setting), and therinse step (with corresponding spin cycle). After the wash process wascompleted, the fabrics were removed. The test fabrics were machine driedin Kenmore driers on Cotton/High setting, for 50 minutes. The testfabrics were then equilibrated for 24 hours in a 70 F. /50% RelativeHumidity controlled room. After the test fabric terry cloths hadequilibrated, the coefficient of friction of each terry was evaluated.The average for the 10 terry cloths washed in the respective product arereported in Table 5.

This testing was repeated with North America Whirlpool Duet 9200 HEfront-loading washing machines. Each machine was set to run a Normalsingle cycle including a 15 minute wash agitation period, and 2three-minute rinse steps. The water used was 137 ppm hardness and 25° C.for the wash, and 15.5° C. for the rinse. The water volume at each stepwas about 19 Liters. The total fabric load weight was 3.6 kg (whichincludes 10 test fabric hand towel terry cloths, and the remainingballast consisting of half cotton fabric only and half 50/50 poly-cottonblend). The 30.8 g of the particles being evaluated were added with thefabric load, prior to closing the washer door and beginning the washcycle. The detergent used was TIDE ORIGINAL SCENT HE liquid detergent(produced by The Procter & Gamble Company). 84.3 g of detergent wasdosed via the detergent dispenser drawer. For the DOWNY APRIL FRESHtreatment, the DOWNY APRIL FRESH, available from The Procter & GambleCompany, was added into the second rinse step via the fabric softenerdispenser drawer, and the DOWNY was dosed at 48.5 g. After the washprocess was completed, the fabrics were removed. The test fabrics weremachine dried in Kenmore driers on Cotton/High setting, for 50 minutes.The test fabrics were then equilibrated for 24 hours in a 21° C./50%Relative Humidity controlled room. After the test fabric terry clothshad equilibrated, the coefficient of friction of each terry wasevaluated. The average for the 10 terry cloths washed in the respectiveproduct are reported in Table 5.

TABLE 5 Efficacy of various quaternary ammonium compounds for deliveringa fabric softening benefit. North North America America Top Front LoadLoad Average Average Co- Co- efficient efficient of of Product FrictionFriction TIDE ORIGINAL SCENT HE, 84.3 g 1.55 1.36 TIDE ORIGINAL SCENTHE, 84.3 g 1.33 0.99 30.8 g particles of the formula: 16% by weightquaternary ammonium compound¹; 4% by weight fatty acid (Iodine Value =0)² 3% by weight cationic polymer³; 77% by weight polyethylene glycolhaving a weight average molecular weight of 9000 (Type B Particles fromTables 2 and 3) 1.19 0.94 TIDE ORIGINAL SCENT HE, 84.3 g 30.8 gparticles of the formula: 24% by weight quaternary ammonium compound¹;6% by weight fatty acid²; 3% by weight cationic polymer³; 67% by weightpolyethylene glycol having a weight average molecular weight of 9000TIDE ORIGINAL SCENT HE, 84.3 g 1.28 1.01 30.8 g particles of theformula: 20% by weight quaternary ammonium compound⁴; 3% by weightcationic polymer³; 77% by weight polyethylene glycol having a weightaverage molecular weight of 9000 TIDE ORIGINAL SCENT HE, 84.3 g 1.110.91 30.8 g particles of the formula: 30% by weight quaternary ammoniumcompound⁴; 3% by weight cationic polymer³; 67% by weight polyethyleneglycol having a weight average molecular weight of 9000 TIDE ORIGINALSCENT HE, 84.3 g 1.12 0.94 DOWNY APRIL FRESH Liquid Fabric Softener(added to rinse), 48.5 g ¹C18 Unsaturated DEEHMAMS (Diethyl EsterHydroxyethyl Methyl Ammonium Methyl Sulphate) from EVONIK. ²fatty acidhaving an Iodine Value of 0 (fatty acid a blend of stearic acid andpalmitic acid). ³cationic hydroxyethyl cellulose having a weight averagemolecular weight of 400 kDa, a charge density of 0.18, and an averageweight percent of nitrogen per anydroglucose repeat unit of 0.28%.⁴REWOQUAT DIP V 20M CONC available from EVONIK;bis-(2-hydroxypropyl)-dimethylammonium methylsulphate fatty acid ester

wherein R₁ and R₂ is each independently a C₁₅-C₁₇, and wherein theC₁₅-C₁₇ is unsaturated or saturated, branched or linear, substituted orunsubstituted.

As shown in Table 5, for each of the particles tested under the variouswash conditions, particles provided in the wash resulted in a loweraverage coefficient of friction of the terry cloths as compared to thetreatment of using the detergent composition only. Further, andsurprisingly, depending on the particular formulation of the particlesand wash conditions, the particles can provide a softening benefit thatis comparable to a liquid fabric softener.

To evaluate the efficacy of a synthetic cationic polymer as part of aparticle formulation, the battery of tests listed in Table 6 wasperformed. North America Kenmore 600 Series top-loading washing machineswere used. Three complete wash cycle replicates were run using the sametest fabrics to evaluate the softness of the test fabrics over multiplewash cycles, according to the following details. Each machine was set torun a Normal single cycle including a 12 minute wash agitation period,and 1 three-minute rinse. The water used was 137 ppm hardness and 25° C.for the wash, and 15.5° C. for the rinse. The water volume at each stepwas 64 Liters. The total fabric load weight was 2.5 kg (which includes10 test fabric hand towel terry cloths, and the remaining ballastconsisting of half cotton fabric only and half 50/50 poly-cotton blend).The detergent used was TIDE FREE liquid detergent (produced by TheProcter & Gamble Company). 50.0 g of detergent was dosed into the washwater while the wash water was filling. After the detergent was added,28.6 g of the particles being evaluated were also added, followed by thefabric load. After the water fill was complete, the machine entered theagitation period. This was followed by the rinse step (withcorresponding spin cycle). After the entire wash process was completed,the fabrics were removed. The test fabrics were machine dried in Kenmoredriers on Cotton/High setting, for 50 minutes. (The wash and dry cycleswere repeated with the same test fabrics twice more before continuing tothe next step.) The test fabrics were then equilibrated for 24 hours ina 21° C./50% Relative Humidity controlled room. After the test fabricterry cloths had equilibrated, the coefficient of friction of each terrywas evaluated. The average for the 10 terry cloths washed in therespective product are reported in Table 6.

TABLE 6 Effect of synthetic cationic polymer on fabric softness. NorthAmerica Top Load Average Coefficient Product of Friction TIDE FREE, 50 g1.63 Tide Free, 50 g 1.57 28.6 g particles of the formula: 17.6% byweight quaternary ammonium compound¹; 15.4% by weight fatty acid²; 67%by weight polyethylene glycol having a weight average molecular weightof 9000 TIDE FREE, 50 g 1.20 28.6 g particles of the formula: 17.6% byweight quaternary ammonium compound¹; 15.4% by weight fatty acid²; 3% byweight active cationic polymer³; 59.68% by weight polyethylene glycolhaving a weight average molecular weight of 9000 ¹C18 UnsaturatedDEEHMAMS (Diethyl Ester Hydroxyethyl Methyl Ammonium Methyl Sulphate)from EVONIK. ²fatty acid having an Iodine Value of 0 (fatty acid a blendof stearic acid and palmitic acid). ³synthetic cationic polymer MERQUAT280, DADMAC/AA, available from Lubrizol, Wickliffe, Ohio, USA. 41%active.

As shown in Table 6, for each of the particles tested under the variouswash conditions, particles provided in the wash resulted in a loweraverage coefficient of friction of the terry cloths as compared to thetreatment of using the detergent composition only.

To further evaluate the efficacy of a synthetic cationic polymer as partof a particle formulation, the battery of tests listed in Table 7 wasperformed. North America Kenmore 600 Series top-loading washing machineswere used. Three complete wash cycle replicates were run using the sametest fabrics to evaluate the softness of the test fabrics over multiplewash cycles, according to the following details. Each machine was set torun a Normal single cycle including a 12 minute wash agitation period,and 1 three-minute rinse. The water used was 137 ppm hardness and 25° C.for the wash, and 15.5° C. for the rinse. The water volume at each stepwas 64 Liters. The total fabric load weight was 3.8 kg (which includes10 test fabric hand towel terry cloths, and the remaining ballastconsisting of half cotton fabric only and half 50/50 poly-cotton blend).The detergent used was TIDE FREE liquid detergent (produced by TheProcter & Gamble Company). 85 g of detergent was dosed into the washwater while the wash water was filling. After the detergent was added,28.6 g of the particles being evaluated were also added, followed by thefabric load. After the water fill was complete, the machine entered theagitation period. This was followed by the rinse step (withcorresponding spin cycle). After the entire wash process was completed,the fabrics were removed. The test fabrics were machine dried in Kenmoredriers on Cotton/High setting, for 50 minutes. (The wash and dry cycleswere repeated with the same test fabrics twice more before continuing tothe next step.) The test fabrics were then equilibrated for 24 hours ina 21° C./50% Relative Humidity controlled room. After the test fabricterry cloths had equilibrated, the coefficient of friction of each terrywas evaluated. The average for the 10 terry cloths washed in therespective product are reported in Table 7.

TABLE 7 Effect of synthetic cationic polymer on fabric softness. NorthAmerica Top Load Average Coefficient Product of Friction TIDE FREE, 85 g1.71 TIDE FREE, 85 g 1.49 28.6 g particles of the formula: 30% by weightquaternary ammonium compound¹; 3% by weight active cationic polymer²62.68% by weight polyethylene glycol having a weight average molecularweight of 9000 TIDE FREE, 85 g 1.24 28.6 g particles of the formula: 30%by weight quaternary ammonium compound¹; 3% by weight active cationicpolymer³; 67% by weight polyethylene glycol having a weight averagemolecular weight of 9000 ¹DEEDMAC (Di-tallowoylethanolesterdimethylammonium chloride), where the fatty acid moieties have an IodineValue of ~18-22; about 20. (approximately 9% by weight ethanol and 3% byweight coconut oil) ²synthetic cationic polymer MERQUAT 280, DADMAC/AA,available from Lubrizol, Wickliffe, Ohio, USA, 41% active. ³cationichydroxyethyl cellulose having a weight average molecular weight of 400kDa, a charge density of 0.18, and an average weight percent of nitrogenper anydroglucose repeat unit of 0.28%

For each of the particles tested in Table 7, particles provided in thewash resulted in a lower average coefficient of friction of the terrycloths as compared to the treatment of using the detergent compositiononly. Further, including the cationic polymer for the quaternaryammonium compound evaluated reduced the average coefficient of frictionmarkedly.

Surprisingly, the softening benefits observed, manifested as reductionsin coefficient of friction, can be achieved with the particles providedto the wash sub-cycle. As discussed above, providing particles throughthe wash can be more convenient to users as compared to delivering aseparate liquid fabric softening composition through the rinse. Further,surprisingly, such softening benefits can be achieved with a minimal oracceptable negative impact on whiteness, as might be expected when aquaternary ammonium compound is delivered in the presence of an anionicsurfactant containing detergent composition. As such, the particlesdisclosed herein can be conveniently dispensed into the washing machinebefore, during, or immediately after the clothes are loaded into thewashing machine and before the door is closed. The particles, due totheir mass may be large enough to be dispensed neatly into the drum ofthe washing machine. The particles also may be perceived by someconsumers as being less messy that liquid fabric softeners.

Examples/Combinations

An example is below:

-   A. A composition comprising a plurality of particles, said particles    comprising:    -   about 25% to about 94% by weight water soluble carrier;    -   about 5% to about 45% by weight a quaternary ammonium compound;        and    -   about 0.5% to about 10% by weight a cationic polymer;    -   wherein each of said particles has a mass from about 1 mg to        about 1 g; and    -   wherein a melt of said composition has a viscosity from about 1        Pa-s to about 10 Pa-s at 65° C., preferably from about 1 Pa-s to        about 5 Pa-s at 65° C.-   B. The composition according to Paragraph A, wherein said quaternary    ammonium compound is an ester quaternary ammonium compound.-   C. The composition according to any of Paragraphs A or B, wherein    said particles have an onset of melt from about 25° C. to about 50°    C.-   D. The composition according to any of Paragraphs A to C, wherein    said particles comprise about 10% to about 40% by weight said    quaternary ammonium compound.-   E. The composition according to any of Paragraphs A to D, wherein    said particles comprise about 1% to about 5% by weight said cationic    polymer.-   F. The composition according to any of Paragraphs A to E, wherein    said cationic polymer is a cationic polysaccharide.-   G. The composition according to any of Paragraphs A to F wherein    said water soluble carrier is selected from the group consisting of    polyethylene glycol, sodium acetate, sodium bicarbonate, sodium    chloride, sodium silicate, polypropylene glycol polyoxoalkylene,    polyethylene glycol fatty acid ester, polyethylene glycol ether,    sodium sulfate, starch, and mixtures thereof.-   H. The composition according to any of Paragraphs A to G, wherein    said particles further comprise from about 1% to about 40% by weight    fatty acid.-   I. The composition according to any of Paragraphs A to H, wherein    said quaternary ammonium compound is    di-(tallowoyloxyethl)-N,N-methylhydroyethylammonium methyl sulfate.-   J. The composition according to any of Paragraphs A to I, wherein    said cationic polymer is a cationic polysaccharide, wherein said    cationic polysaccharide is polymeric quaternary ammonium salt of    hydroxyethylcellulose which has been reacted with an epoxide    substituted with a trimethylammonium group.-   K. The composition according to any of Paragraphs A to J, wherein    said particles are less than about 10% by weight water.-   L. The composition according to any of Paragraphs A to K, wherein    said particles have a

Dispersion Time less than about 30 minutes.

-   M. The composition according to any of Paragraphs A to M, wherein    said water soluble carrier is a water soluble polymer.-   N. The composition according to any of Paragraphs A to M, wherein    said particles comprise a material selected from the group    consisting of perfume, dipropylene glycol, fatty acid, and mixtures    thereof.-   O. The composition according to any of Paragraphs A to N, wherein    said particles are substantially homogeneously or homogeneously    structured particles.-   P. The composition according to any of Paragraphs A to O, wherein    said water soluble carrier is polyethylene glycol having a weight    average molecular weight from about 2000 to about 13000.-   Q. The composition according to any of Paragraphs A to P, wherein    said particles have a ratio of maximum dimension to minimum    dimension from about 10 to 1.-   R. A process for treating an article of clothing comprising the    steps of:    -   providing an article of clothing in a washing machine; and    -   contacting said article of clothing during a wash sub-cycle of        said washing machine with the composition according to any one        of Paragraphs A to Q.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood asbeing strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead,unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean boththe recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding thatvalue. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean“about 40 mm.”

Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or relatedpatent or application and any patent application or patent to which thisapplication claims priority or benefit thereof, is hereby incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded orotherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission thatit is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimedherein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other referenceor references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention.Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in thisdocument conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in adocument incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assignedto that term in this document shall govern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in theart that various other changes and modifications can be made withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is thereforeintended to cover in the appended claims all such changes andmodifications that are within the scope of this invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A composition comprising a plurality ofparticles, said particles comprising: about 25% to about 94% by weight awater soluble carrier; about 5% to about 45% by weight a quaternaryammonium compound; and about 0.5% to about 10% by weight a cationicpolymer; wherein each of said particles has a mass from about 1 mg toabout 1 g; and wherein a melt of said composition has a viscosity fromabout 1 Pa-s to about 10 Pa-s at 65° C.
 2. The composition according toclaim 1, wherein said quaternary ammonium compound is an esterquaternary ammonium compound.
 3. The composition according to claim 2,wherein said particles comprise about 10% to about 40% by weight saidquaternary ammonium compound.
 4. The composition according to claim 3,wherein said particles comprise about 1% to about 5% by weight saidcationic polymer.
 5. The composition according to claim 4, wherein saidcationic polymer is a cationic polysaccharide.
 6. The compositionaccording to claim 5, wherein said water soluble carrier furthercomprises a material selected from the group consisting of sodiumacetate, sodium bicarbonate, sodium chloride, sodium silicate,polypropylene glycol polyoxoalkylene, polyethylene glycol fatty acidester, polyethylene glycol ether, sodium sulfate, starch, and mixturesthereof.
 7. The composition according to claim 6, wherein said watersoluble carrier is polyethylene glycol having a weight average molecularweight from about 2000 to about
 13000. 8. The composition according toclaim 6, wherein said particles further comprise from about 1% to about40% by weight fatty acid.
 9. The composition according to claim 6,wherein said particles are less than about 10% by weight water.
 10. Thecomposition according to claim 6, wherein said particles have aDispersion Time less than about 30 minutes.
 11. The compositionaccording to claim 6, wherein said particles have an onset of melt fromabout 25° C. to about 50° C.
 12. The composition according to claim 6,wherein said quaternary ammonium compound isdi-(tallowoyloxyethl)-N,N-methylhydroyethylammonium methyl sulfate. 13.The composition according to claim 12, wherein said cationic polymer isa cationic polysaccharide, wherein said cationic polysaccharide ispolymeric quaternary ammonium salt of hydroxyethylcellulose which hasbeen reacted with an epoxide substituted with a trimethylammonium group.14. The composition according to claim 1, wherein said cationic polymeris a cationic polysaccharide.
 15. The composition according to claim 1,wherein said quaternary ammonium compound isdi-(tallowoyloxyethl)-N,N-methylhydroyethylammonium methyl sulfate. 16.The composition according to claim 1, wherein said cationic polymer is acationic polysaccharide, wherein said cationic polysaccharide ispolymeric quaternary ammonium salt of hydroxyethylcellulose which hasbeen reacted with an epoxide substituted with a trimethylammonium group.17. The composition according to claim 1, wherein said particles areless than about 10% by weight water.
 18. The composition according toclaim 1, wherein said water soluble carrier is a water soluble polymer.19. The composition according to claim 1, wherein said particles furthercomprise a diluent selected from the group consisting of perfume,dipropylene glycol, fatty acid, and mixtures thereof.
 20. A process fortreating an article of clothing comprising the steps of: providing anarticle of clothing in a washing machine; and contacting said article ofclothing during a wash sub-cycle of said washing machine with thecomposition according to claim 1.